How and When to Harvest Turnips for the Best Texture

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Harvesting turnips at the right time is essential to enjoy their tender texture and sweet flavor. Turnips left in the ground too long become woody, tough, and less palatable. To ensure you get the best texture, follow these guidelines for when and how to harvest your turnips.

Turnip at harvest
Turnip at harvest

When to Harvest Turnips

  • Size matters: Most turnip varieties are best harvested when roots reach 2 to 3 inches in diameter. At this size, the roots are tender and flavorful.
  • Timing: Depending on the variety and planting time, turnips are typically ready to harvest 30 to 60 days after sowing.
  • Watch the weather: Harvest before heavy frosts, as freezing can alter texture. Light frost can improve sweetness but prolonged freezing will damage roots.
  • Observe the tops: Healthy, vibrant green leaves indicate roots are still growing. When leaves start yellowing or wilting, it’s time to harvest.

How to Harvest Turnips

  1. Loosen the soil: Use a garden fork or spade to gently loosen the soil around the roots to avoid damage.
  2. Pull gently: Grasp the base of the turnip greens firmly and pull the root out of the soil carefully.
  3. Clean immediately: Brush off excess soil but avoid washing until you’re ready to store or cook to prevent spoilage.
  4. Harvest greens: Don’t discard the greens! They are nutritious and can be harvested at the same time as roots.

Tips for Best Texture

  • Harvest turnips promptly once they reach the right size to avoid fibrous, woody roots.
  • Succession plantings help ensure a steady supply of tender turnips over a longer period.
  • If roots grow too large, thin them out to give space to the remaining plants.

Storing Your Harvest

Store turnips in a cool, moist place such as a refrigerator crisper or a root cellar. Proper storage keeps them fresh and preserves their texture for weeks.

Experience the Best Teacher

Drawing from decades of practical gardening experience and supported by agricultural research, these harvesting guidelines ensure you get the best texture and flavor from your turnips. Understanding the right size, timing, and careful handling techniques helps gardeners avoid common pitfalls like woody roots. This trusted advice empowers both beginners and seasoned growers to confidently harvest turnips at their peak quality for delicious meals and optimal nutrition.

Written by Stephen Albert

Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.

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