You are here

Turnips-Rutabagas

Turnips and Rutabagas

Cartoon image of a black and white turnip.

Turnips are grown for both leaves (greens) and roots in the spring and fall garden. For greens, it is not necessary to thin seedlings, and there are varieties just for greens. For roots, thin seedlings to 2 to 4 inches apart.

Rutabagas are a fall crop with planting recommended in August or early September. Roots require 4 to 6 weeks longer to mature than turnip roots. Thin rutabaga seedlings to at least 6 inches apart (12 inches preferred) in the row. Rutabaga leaves can be eaten.

Hot weather causes turnips to be strong-flavored or bitter and pithy. Black spots inside the roots indicate a need for boron. Dissolve 1 level tablespoon of household borax in 3 gallons of water and apply to 100 feet of row. Use less for shorter rows.

Major problems are aphids, leaf-eating worms, and leaf spots.

Varieties

  • All Top—hybrid; broadleaf turnip for tops only; dark green; 50 days.
  • American Purple Top—rutabaga; 4- to 5-inch diameter; spherical; purple-red crown; pale yellow flesh; 90 days.
  • Just Right—hybrid; root and top type; white root; broad, serrated leaf; 60 days; AAS 1960.
  • Purple Top—old standard; root and top type; white globe root with purple crown; 57 days.
  • Seven Top—leaf type; cut leaf; dark green; 45 days.
  • Tokyo Cross—hybrid; root and top type; semi-globe; white root; early; 35 days; AAS 1969.
Print Friendly, PDF & Email

News

Filed Under: Vegetable Gardens February 28, 2024

With nearly a decade of horticultural production experience, the new vegetable specialist with the Mississippi State University Extension Service plans to serve growers statewide.

Person planting vegetables.
Filed Under: Flower Gardens, Vegetable Gardens February 26, 2024

Spring is right around the corner, and you probably are getting an itch to start setting out plants in your landscape and garden. If you’re new to gardening, you’ll need to know what plant hardiness zone you’re in.

A woman scrapes vegetable scraps off a cutting board into a countertop compost bin.
Filed Under: Health and Wellness, Lawn and Garden, Flower Gardens, Vegetable Gardens, Natural Resources, Waste Management February 21, 2024

RAYMOND, Miss. -- Many of the practices associated with sustainability, such as recycling, can be extended into the garden. Composting is a way to help reduce organic waste that goes to the landfill and helps feed gardens. These organic materials, which include grass clippings, leaves and other yard wastes, account for about 30% of trash that goes to the landfill.

Contact Your County Office