Turnips

Turnips are a popular root vegetable that is grown in Georgia. The state has a warm, humid climate that is well-suited for turnip production. Turnips can be grown in a variety of settings, including in gardens, greenhouses, and fields. To grow turnips in Georgia, you will need to start with seeds or plants. These can be purchased from a nursery or online retailer. When selecting seeds or plants, be sure to choose varieties that are well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions. Turnips need well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight, so it is important to select a planting site that meets these requirements. Once you have chosen your seeds or plants and a suitable planting site, you can prepare the soil by adding organic matter, such as compost, to help improve its structure and fertility. When planting the seeds or plants, be sure to follow the recommended planting guidelines, including proper spacing and watering. Turnips require regular watering and fertilization to support healthy growth. It is a good idea to consult with a local nursery or extension service for specific recommendations on how to grow turnips in Georgia.

Here are some general steps for growing turnips in Georgia:
• Choose a suitable planting site: Turnips need well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight, so it is important to select a site that meets these requirements. Turnips also prefer a slightly alkaline soil pH, so it may be necessary to adjust the soil pH if necessary.
• Purchase seeds or plants: You can purchase turnip seeds or plants from a nursery or online retailer. Be sure to choose varieties that are well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions. Some popular varieties for Georgia include turnip 'Purple Top White Globe' (Brassica rapa) and turnip 'All Top' (Brassica rapa).
• Prepare the soil: Add organic matter, such as compost, to the soil to improve its structure and fertility. Turnips also benefit from the addition of sand or grit to the soil to improve drainage.
• Plant the seeds or plants: Follow the recommended planting guidelines, including proper spacing and watering. Turnip seeds should be planted about 1/4 inch deep and about 12 inches apart. Turnip plants should be spaced about 18 inches apart as well.
• Water and fertilize regularly: Turnips require regular watering and fertilization to support healthy growth. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks.
• Prune the plants as needed: Pruning can help to maintain the plant's shape and encourage healthy growth.
• Protect the plants from pests and diseases: Turnips can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, so it is important to monitor the plants and take steps to prevent or control any problems that may arise.

It is a good idea to consult with a local nursery or extension service for specific recommendations on how to grow turnips in Georgia.

What to do with all these turnips?
Turnips are a root vegetable that have a slightly sweet and earthy taste. They are typically used in savory dishes and are a staple in many traditional cuisines. Some popular ways to use turnips include:

• Roasted Turnips: Cut the turnips into wedges or cubes, toss with oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and golden.
• Mashed Turnips: Boil the turnips until tender, then mash them with butter, milk, and salt.
• Turnips and Greens: Cut the turnips into small cubes and cook them with the greens (the leafy part of the turnip) that are sautéed with garlic, onion and bacon.
• Turnip Soup: Cook the turnips with chicken or vegetable broth, then puree it until smooth and enjoy it with some bread.
• Turnip Gratin: Thinly slice the turnips and layer them in a baking dish with butter, cream, and cheese.
• Turnip in Stew: Cut the turnips into small cubes and add them to your favorite stew recipe, they will add a nice sweetness to the dish.
• Pickled Turnips: Cut the turnips into thin slices and brine them with vinegar, sugar, and spices for a flavorful pickle.
• Turnip Fries: Cut the turnips into thin strips and deep fry them until crispy and golden, enjoy them as a side dish or a snack.
• Turnip and Potato Mash: Mix cooked turnips and potatoes with butter, milk and salt, it will make a delicious and creamy side dish.
• Stir-fry: Cut the turnips into small cubes, sauté them with your favorite vegetables, protein and seasonings to make a flavorful and healthy side dish.

These are just some examples, there are many other ways to use turnips, and they can be a great addition to a variety of dishes.

Turnip Recipes

Turnips are a cool-season crop, and they thrive in the cooler temperatures of spring and fall. In Georgia, where temperatures can become relatively warm, turnips are typically grown during the fall season. Here's a detailed guide on the best season to grow turnips in Georgia, broken down by months:

Late Summer to Early Fall Planning (July - August)

• July - August: Begin planning for turnip planting. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Turnips prefer cooler temperatures and are well-suited for the fall growing season.

Mid to Late Summer Planting (August - September)

• August - September: Start planting turnip seeds directly in the garden or transplant seedlings in mid to late summer. This timing allows the plants to establish themselves while the weather is still warm. Be mindful of the last expected frost date in your specific area of Georgia.

Fall Growth and Development (September - November)

• September - November: Turnip plants will grow and develop during the fall months. Ensure consistent watering, especially during dry periods. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Fall Harvest (October - December)

• October - December: Harvest turnips as they reach maturity. The exact timing of harvest depends on the turnip variety and local weather conditions. Turnips can be harvested when they reach a desirable size, typically 2 to 3 inches in diameter.

Late Fall Cleanup (November - December)

• November - December: As the growing season concludes, remove spent turnip plants and debris from the garden. This helps prevent the buildup of pests and diseases.

While fall is generally the preferred season for growing turnips in Georgia, some gardeners may also have success with a spring planting. If opting for a spring planting, start seeds directly in the garden or transplant seedlings in early spring.

It's essential to monitor local climate conditions and adjust planting times accordingly. Additionally, choose turnip varieties that are well-suited for the specific conditions in your region of Georgia. Always consult with local agricultural extension services or nurseries for region-specific recommendations and guidance on turnip varieties and cultivation practices.

What are some common pests for turnips?
Turnips, like other cruciferous vegetables, can be vulnerable to various pests that may impact their growth and yield. Here are some common pests for turnips, along with descriptions, the damage they cause, and control measures:

Flea Beetles (Various species)

• Description: Small beetles that jump when disturbed, often with shiny bodies.
• Damage: Flea beetles feed on turnip leaves, causing small holes and a stippled appearance.
• Control: Use row covers, apply insecticides, and practice good garden hygiene. Early planting may help reduce flea beetle damage.

Aphids (Various species)

• Description: Small, soft-bodied insects that come in various colors.
• Damage: Aphids feed on turnip leaves, causing distortion, yellowing, and the secretion of honeydew.
• Control: Introduce natural predators like ladybugs, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and encourage beneficial insects. Wash aphids off with a strong stream of water.

Cabbage Worms (Imported Cabbageworm - Pieris rapae, Cabbage Looper - Trichoplusia ni, Diamondback Moth - Plutella xylostella)

• Description: Larvae of various moth species; green caterpillars with distinct characteristics.
• Damage: Feed on turnip leaves, causing large, irregular holes and damage to the foliage.
• Control: Handpick caterpillars, use row covers, introduce natural predators like parasitic wasps, and apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).

Root Maggots (Various species, e.g., Delia radicum)

• Description: Small, white maggots.
• Damage: Larvae tunnel into turnip roots, causing feeding damage and potential rot.
• Control: Use row covers, apply beneficial nematodes to the soil, and practice crop rotation. Apply insecticides if necessary.

Wireworms (Various species)

• Description: Larvae are slender, yellow to brown, and have a hard, segmented appearance.
• Damage: Wireworms feed on turnip roots, causing tunnels and reduced plant vigor.
• Control: Rotate crops, use soil insecticides, and plant turnips when soil temperatures are warmer.

Cutworms (Various species)

• Description: Nocturnal caterpillars that cut through stems near the soil surface.
• Damage: Cutworms can sever young turnip plants at the base.
• Control: Use collars around plant stems, apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), and handpick cutworms.

Slugs and Snails (Various species)

• Description: Soft-bodied, slow-moving gastropods.
• Damage: Feed on turnip leaves, causing irregular holes and damage to foliage.
• Control: Handpick slugs and snails, use traps, and apply slug and snail baits. Keep the garden clean to reduce hiding spots.

Integrated pest management (IPM) practices, including regular monitoring, early detection, and a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical controls, can help manage pest problems in turnip crops effectively. Always follow recommended guidelines for the specific pest control methods you choose.