Description
Purple Top White Globe Turnip Seeds by Diamond Seed Company stands out as an exceptional choice when it comes to cultivating high-quality turnips. Known for its early-maturing nature, high yields, and distinctive flavor, this variety offers everything you need to enjoy a successful turnip harvest.
Purple Top White Globe Turnip Seeds Overview
Feature |
Description |
Maturity |
Early-maturing variety |
Germination Rate |
80-85% |
Fruit Shape |
Uniform globe shape |
Fruit Size |
Medium to large |
Seed Rate |
4 bags per acre |
Purple Top White Globe Turnip Planting Instructions
Planting the Purple Top White Globe Turnip seeds is straightforward, but like all crops, following the right steps will help you achieve the best results.
1. Preparing the Soil
Turnips thrive in well-drained, loamy soil with a neutral pH (between 6.0 and 7.0). Before planting, ensure that the soil is free from large rocks or debris that could hinder root development. You may want to add organic matter or compost to enrich the soil, providing essential nutrients for healthy growth.
2. Sowing The Purple Top White Globe Turnip Seeds
Planting Depth: Sow the turnip seeds about ½ inch deep in rows. You can also broadcast the seeds over the soil and lightly cover them.
Row Spacing: Space the rows about 12 to 18 inches apart to give the plants enough room to grow.
Seed Rate: For optimal coverage, 4 bags per acre is recommended. Each bag contains the perfect number of seeds to ensure uniform growth over a large planting area.
3. Watering and Maintenance
After sowing, ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Turnips are relatively drought-tolerant but require consistent watering during the growing season to produce high yields. Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during germination, which typically takes 5 to 10 days.
4. Thinning the Seedlings
Once your seedlings have grown to about 3-4 inches tall, thin them to about 4 to 6 inches apart. This allows the roots to develop fully and prevents overcrowding, which can stunt growth and reduce the overall size of the turnips.
5. Fertilization
While turnips don’t require excessive fertilization, a light application of balanced fertilizer can support healthy growth, especially during the early stages. If your soil lacks nutrients, consider using a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer.
6. Weeding and Pest Control
Regular weeding is essential to ensure that your turnips have enough nutrients and space to grow. Use organic mulches to reduce weed growth and keep the soil cool and moist. Pest control can be managed organically by using insecticidal soap or neem oil, which will help protect your turnips from aphids and other pests.
7. Harvesting
The Purple Top White Globe Turnips are ready to harvest about 60 to 70 days after sowing. Turnips can be harvested when they reach a size of 2 to 3 inches in diameter for small, tender roots. For larger roots, wait until they reach 4 to 5 inches in diameter. Harvest the roots gently using a spade or fork to avoid damaging them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much sunlight do Purple Top White Globe Turnips need?
Purple Top White Globe Turnips need full sunlight for optimal growth, which means at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade can help protect the plants from excessive heat, especially in the summer months.
Can I grow Purple Top White Globe Turnip seeds in colder climates?
Yes, these turnips are cold-tolerant and can grow well in regions with cold climates. They are ideal for early spring or fall planting, as they can withstand light frost, improving their flavor and texture. However, ensure they are protected from extreme winter conditions.
Can I plant turnips alongside other vegetables?
Yes, turnips grow well with many other vegetables. They are great companions for crops like beans, peas, and lettuce. They can also be planted with radishes, spinach, and garlic to help deter pests and improve overall soil health.