Purple Top Turnip Guide

If you're on the hunt for a resilient, dual-purpose vegetable that can provide exceptional nutrition and versatile harvesting options, look no further than Purple Top Turnip. Known for its remarkable hardiness, distinctive appearance, and outstanding productivity, this root vegetable is a top choice for homeowners seeking a reliable, low-maintenance crop that delivers both nutritious roots and leafy greens with minimal fuss. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore what makes this vegetable special, its growing requirements, planting instructions, maintenance tips, and much more. Let's dive in!

What Makes Purple Top Turnip Special?

Purple Top Turnip stands out in the world of root vegetables due to its exceptional versatility, superior hardiness, and distinctive dual-harvest capabilities that make it valuable for both root and green production. This classic variety of turnip (Brassica rapa var. rapa) represents generations of selection for reliability, productivity, and outstanding flavor characteristics, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who want maximum value from their garden space.

What truly distinguishes Purple Top Turnip is its iconic appearance and exceptional adaptability that has made it a garden staple for over a century. The variety features beautiful white roots with distinctive purple shoulders that emerge above ground, creating an attractive and easily identifiable crop. Beyond its visual appeal, Purple Top Turnip offers remarkable versatility - providing tender, nutritious greens early in the season and developing substantial, flavorful roots for fall and winter harvest.

The "Purple Top" name reflects its most distinctive characteristic - the vibrant purple coloration that develops on the portion of the root exposed to sunlight. This variety embodies the perfect solution for homeowners who want a dependable, productive vegetable that can serve multiple purposes while requiring minimal specialized care or expertise to achieve excellent results.

Detailed Seed Composition and Varieties

Purple Top Turnip represents a time-tested, open-pollinated variety of Brassica rapa that has been refined through generations of selection for optimal performance, flavor, and reliability in diverse growing conditions.

Seed Composition and Characteristics:

• Purple Top White Globe Turnip (Brassica rapa var. rapa): The classic variety known for distinctive purple-topped white roots and excellent dual-purpose characteristics

• Open-Pollinated Genetics: Traditional genetics that allow for seed saving and maintain consistent variety characteristics

• Heritage Selection: Time-tested variety selected for reliability, flavor, and adaptability over many generations

• Dual-Purpose Design: Bred for both excellent root production and high-quality leafy green harvest

• Cold Hardy Genetics: Natural selection for excellent cold tolerance and extended season production

• Quality Standards: Seed tested for purity, germination rates, and true-to-type characteristics

The breeding heritage behind Purple Top Turnip represents decades of natural selection and farmer-saved seed that has resulted in a variety perfectly adapted to diverse growing conditions while maintaining the distinctive characteristics that make it so recognizable and valuable.

Growing Conditions and Requirements

Understanding the optimal growing conditions for Purple Top Turnip reveals its exceptional adaptability and reliable performance characteristics, making it suitable for a wide range of garden applications and growing seasons.

Climate

Purple Top Turnip is a cool-season crop that demonstrates remarkable adaptability across diverse climatic conditions, with particular excellence in temperate regions with distinct seasonal changes. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 2-9, with exceptional performance during cool weather periods.

Temperature Tolerance:

• Optimal Growth: Peak performance at temperatures between 50-70°F (10-21°C)

• Heat Adaptation: Can tolerate summer temperatures up to 80°F (27°C) but prefers cooler conditions

• Cold Excellence: Outstanding frost tolerance, with roots becoming sweeter after frost exposure

• Extended Season: Can be grown from early spring through late fall and into winter

• Seasonal Flexibility: Excellent performance in both spring and fall growing seasons

Soil

One of the most appealing features of Purple Top Turnip is its adaptability to various soil conditions while producing excellent crops even in challenging growing environments.

Soil Adaptability:

• Soil Types: Performs well in loam, sandy loam, and clay soils with proper preparation

• Drainage Requirements: Prefers well-drained soils but tolerates moderate moisture variations

• pH Range: Optimal growth in soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0, tolerates ranges from 5.5 to 7.5

• Fertility Needs: Moderate fertility requirements, performs well in average garden soils

• Soil Depth: Benefits from loose, well-prepared soil to 8-12 inches depth for optimal root development

• Compaction Tolerance: Good tolerance to moderately compacted soils

Sunlight

Purple Top Turnip demonstrates excellent performance across varying light conditions while producing optimal results in full sun environments.

Light Requirements:

• Optimal Conditions: Full sun (6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily) for maximum root development

• Partial Shade: Tolerates light shade (4-6 hours of sunlight) with emphasis on green production

• Seasonal Adaptation: Adapts well to changing light conditions throughout the growing season

• Heat Management: Benefits from some afternoon shade in extremely hot climates

Planting Instructions and Timing

Proper planting techniques and timing are essential for establishing a successful Purple Top Turnip crop that will provide both leafy greens and substantial root harvest throughout the growing season.

When to Plant

Optimal Planting Windows:

• Spring Planting: Early spring (2-4 weeks before last frost) for summer harvest

• Summer Planting: Mid-summer (July-August) for optimal fall and winter harvest

• Fall Planting: Late summer through early fall for winter storage crop

• Succession Planting: Multiple plantings every 2-3 weeks for continuous harvest

Why Fall Planting Often Excels: Fall-planted turnips benefit from cool weather development that enhances root sweetness and quality while avoiding summer heat stress. Fall crops often produce the highest quality roots with superior flavor and storage characteristics.

Detailed Planting Process

1. Thorough Site Preparation:

• Select well-drained area with good sun exposure for optimal root development

• Clear the area completely of weeds and debris that could interfere with growth

• Test soil pH and amend if necessary to achieve optimal 6.0-7.0 range

• Plan adequate spacing for both green harvest and root development

2. Comprehensive Soil Preparation:

• Work soil to 8-12 inches depth to accommodate root development and easy harvest

• Incorporate 2-3 inches of compost or aged organic matter for improved soil structure

• Apply balanced fertilizer based on soil test recommendations (typically 1-2 lbs per 1,000 sq ft)

• Remove rocks and debris that could cause root deformation or harvesting difficulties

3. Precision Seeding Techniques:

• Direct Seeding: Plant seeds ¼ to ½ inch deep in well-prepared seedbed

• Spacing: Space seeds 1-2 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart

• Thinning Plan: Plan to thin seedlings to 3-4 inches apart for optimal root development

• Succession Planting: Plant new rows every 2-3 weeks for continuous harvest

• Ensure good seed-to-soil contact for uniform germination

4. Post-Planting Care:

• Water gently immediately after planting to ensure good soil contact

• Apply light mulch between rows to retain moisture and suppress weeds

• Maintain consistent soil moisture until germination occurs (typically 5-10 days)

• Begin thinning program when seedlings are 2-3 inches tall

Maintenance and Care Tips

Once your Purple Top Turnip is established, proper maintenance will ensure excellent production of both nutritious greens and high-quality roots throughout the growing season.

Strategic Watering Approach

Establishment Phase (First 3-4 weeks):

• Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture for rapid establishment

• Apply ¾ to 1 inch of water per week through consistent watering sessions

• Monitor soil moisture at seed depth to ensure adequate germination conditions

• Avoid overwatering that could cause seed rot or damping-off issues

Production Phase Watering:

• Consistent Moisture: Provide 1-1.5 inches of water per week during active growth

• Root Development: Deep, infrequent watering encourages strong root development

• Harvest Quality: Consistent moisture prevents roots from becoming woody or cracking

• Seasonal Adjustment: Reduce watering frequency as temperatures cool in fall

• Mulching Strategy: Use organic mulch to maintain consistent soil moisture

Balanced Fertilization Program

Moderate Nutrition Approach: Purple Top Turnip performs well with moderate fertility levels and responds positively to balanced nutrition programs.

Seasonal Feeding Schedule:

• Pre-Plant: Incorporate balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) at 1-2 lbs per 1,000 sq ft

• Side-Dressing: Light nitrogen application when plants are 4-6 inches tall

• Root Development: Reduce nitrogen and emphasize phosphorus during root enlargement phase

• Organic Supplements: Compost topdressing provides sustained nutrition throughout season

• Seasonal Timing: Coordinate feeding with natural growth phases for optimal results

Comprehensive Thinning and Management

Strategic Thinning Program:

• First Thinning: When seedlings are 2-3 inches tall, thin to 2 inches apart

• Second Thinning: When plants are 4-5 inches tall, thin to final 3-4 inch spacing

• Green Harvest: Use thinned plants as tender baby greens for early harvest

• Root Space: Ensure adequate spacing for proper root development and easy harvest

• Ongoing Management: Continue removing weak or overcrowded plants throughout season

Pest and Disease Management

Integrated Management Strategy:

• Monitoring: Regular inspection for common brassica pests like flea beetles and cabbage worms

• Cultural Controls: Good sanitation and crop rotation prevent disease buildup

• Physical Barriers: Row covers during establishment protect from pest damage

• Beneficial Insects: Encourage natural predators through diverse plantings

• Organic Controls: Use appropriate organic treatments when necessary

Seasonal Production Calendar

Spring Production (March-May):

• Plant early for summer green harvest and small root production

• Begin regular watering and fertilization program

• Start thinning and early green harvest when plants are established

• Plan summer planting for fall root harvest

Summer Management (June-August):

• Harvest spring-planted crops for greens and small roots

• Plant main fall crop for optimal root production

• Maintain consistent moisture during establishment of fall plantings

• Monitor for heat stress and provide protection if necessary

Fall and Winter Harvest (September-February):

• Begin major root harvest as plants mature and weather cools

• Continue green harvest from younger plantings

• Implement storage strategies for winter use

• Protect late plantings for extended harvest period

Appearance and Characteristics When Mature

When fully mature, Purple Top Turnip creates attractive, productive plants that provide both beautiful leafy tops and distinctive, flavorful roots for extended harvest periods.

Distinctive Visual Characteristics

Attractive Plant Appearance:

• Foliage: Bright green, deeply lobed leaves growing 12-18 inches tall

• Root Character: Globe-shaped white roots with distinctive purple shoulders

• Size Range: Mature roots typically 3-5 inches in diameter when fully developed

• Color Development: Purple coloration intensifies with sun exposure and maturity

• Harvest Indicators: Clear definition between white root and purple top sections

Growth Characteristics:

• Dual Harvest: Provides both leafy greens and substantial root harvest

• Root Development: Roots partially emerge above ground, showing distinctive coloration

• Seasonal Changes: Appearance improves with cool weather and light frost exposure

• Harvest Flexibility: Can be harvested at multiple stages for different uses

• Storage Quality: Mature roots develop excellent storage characteristics

Outstanding Performance Characteristics

Exceptional Productivity:

• Green Production: Continuous harvest of nutritious greens throughout growing season

• Root Yield: Individual roots can weigh 1-3 pounds when fully mature

• Harvest Window: Extended harvest period allowing for selective picking

• Quality Maintenance: Maintains quality through extended storage periods

• Versatile Use: Suitable for fresh use, storage, and preservation applications

Reliability Factors:

• Weather Tolerance: Excellent performance through variable weather conditions

• Pest Resistance: Good natural resistance to common garden pests

• Storage Ability: Excellent storage potential for winter use

• Flavor Development: Flavor improves with cool weather and light frost exposure

Comprehensive Pros and Cons Analysis

Understanding both the exceptional advantages and realistic considerations of Purple Top Turnip helps ensure it meets your specific gardening goals and culinary preferences.

Outstanding Advantages

Exceptional Versatility:

• Dual Purpose: Provides both nutritious greens and substantial root harvest

• Extended Harvest: Multiple harvest opportunities throughout growing season

• Flexible Timing: Can be planted spring, summer, or fall for different harvest goals

• Storage Value: Excellent storage characteristics for winter food security

Superior Reliability:

• Easy Growing: Requires minimal specialized care or expertise to achieve success

• Weather Tolerance: Excellent performance through challenging weather conditions

• Pest Resistance: Generally hardy with good natural resistance to common problems

• Soil Adaptability: Thrives in various soil conditions with basic preparation

Nutritional Excellence:

• Green Nutrition: Leaves provide excellent vitamins A, C, and K plus minerals

• Root Nutrition: Roots offer vitamin C, fiber, and complex carbohydrates

• Flavor Quality: Distinctive, sweet flavor that improves with cool weather

• Culinary Versatility: Suitable for many cooking methods and preservation techniques

Economic Benefits:

• Cost Effectiveness: Provides substantial food value for minimal investment

• Space Efficiency: Maximum production per square foot of garden space

• Storage Savings: Reduces need for purchased vegetables during winter months

• Seed Economy: Open-pollinated variety allows for seed saving

Realistic Considerations

Growing Considerations:

• Thinning Requirements: Requires attention to proper spacing for optimal root development

• Timing Sensitivity: Best results require appropriate seasonal timing

• Soil Preparation: Benefits from good soil preparation for optimal root quality

• Consistent Care: Requires regular watering and basic maintenance for best results

Harvest and Storage Factors:

• Processing Needs: Large harvests may require processing and preservation planning

• Storage Requirements: Need appropriate storage conditions for winter keeping

• Flavor Preferences: Distinctive turnip flavor may not appeal to all family members

• Harvest Timing: Optimal harvest timing important for best quality and storage

Seasonal Limitations:

• Heat Sensitivity: May bolt or become woody in extreme heat

• Cool Weather Preference: Performs best during cooler parts of growing season

• Frost Planning: While frost-tolerant, extreme cold can damage unharvested crops

Who This Vegetable is Best For

Purple Top Turnip is particularly well-suited for specific gardener profiles and growing situations where reliability, versatility, and food security are important considerations.

Ideal Candidates

Traditional Gardeners:

• Heritage Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate time-tested, reliable varieties

• Root Vegetable Lovers: Gardeners who enjoy growing and eating root crops

• Seasonal Gardeners: Those who want productive cool-season crops

• Storage Gardeners: Homeowners interested in winter food storage and preservation

Family Food Producers:

• Large Families: Those needing substantial food production from garden space

• Nutrition-Conscious: Families seeking to maximize nutritional value from homegrown food

• Budget Gardeners: Those wanting maximum food value for minimal investment

• Self-Sufficiency Seekers: Homeowners working toward reduced dependence on purchased food

Beginning Gardeners:

• Easy Success: New gardeners wanting reliable, forgiving crops

• Learning Opportunities: Those interested in understanding root crop production

• Skill Building: Gardeners developing experience with cool-season crops

• Confidence Building: Those needing successful crops to encourage continued gardening

Regional Suitability:

• Northern Climates: Gardeners in areas with excellent cool-season growing conditions

• Short Seasons: Those with limited growing seasons wanting maximum productivity

• Variable Weather: Areas with unpredictable weather requiring hardy crops

• Traditional Agriculture: Regions where turnips are part of traditional food culture

Situations Where Alternatives Might Be Better

Consider Other Options If:

• You dislike the distinctive flavor of turnips and turnip greens

• Your family prefers more tender, mild-flavored vegetables

• You have extremely heavy clay soils that are difficult to prepare

• You're in extremely hot climates with very short cool seasons

• You prefer vegetables that require minimal thinning and spacing attention

Common Questions and Concerns

Growing and Development

How long does it take for turnips to mature? Purple Top Turnips can be harvested for greens in 30-40 days, while roots typically mature in 50-70 days depending on growing conditions and desired size. Fall plantings often take longer but produce higher quality roots.

When should I thin the seedlings? Begin thinning when seedlings are 2-3 inches tall, removing weaker plants to leave stronger ones spaced 2 inches apart. Final thinning to 3-4 inches apart should occur when plants are 4-5 inches tall.

How do I know when roots are ready to harvest? Roots are typically ready when they're 2-4 inches in diameter and show good purple top development. They can be harvested smaller for tender roots or left to mature for larger, storage-quality roots.

Cultivation and Care

Do turnips really need cool weather? Yes, turnips perform best in cool conditions (50-70°F). Hot weather can cause bolting, woody roots, and poor flavor development. Fall plantings usually produce the best quality roots.

How much space do they need? For optimal root development, thin plants to 3-4 inches apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. Closer spacing can be used if harvesting primarily for greens rather than large roots.

Can I harvest both greens and roots from the same plant? Yes, but moderate green harvest early in the season won't significantly impact root development. Heavy green harvest may reduce root size and quality.

Harvest and Storage

How do I store turnips for winter? Remove tops leaving 1-inch stems, brush off soil, and store in cool (32-40°F), humid conditions. They can be stored in root cellars, refrigerators, or buried in slightly moist sand for 3-6 months.

Do turnips really taste better after frost? Yes, light frost converts starches to sugars, significantly improving flavor and reducing any bitter notes. Many growers prefer to harvest after several light frosts for best eating quality.

Can I eat the greens and how do I prepare them? Turnip greens are highly nutritious and delicious when properly prepared. Young greens can be used raw in salads, while mature greens are excellent cooked like collard greens or spinach.

Planning and Success

What's the best planting strategy for continuous harvest? Plant small amounts every 2-3 weeks from early spring through late summer. This provides continuous greens and roots throughout the growing season without overwhelming harvests.

How do Purple Top Turnips compare to other varieties? Purple Top is the classic, most reliable variety with excellent flavor, storage quality, and distinctive appearance. It's generally considered the standard against which other turnip varieties are measured.

Are they good for beginning gardeners? Absolutely! Purple Top Turnips are forgiving, reliable, and provide quick results for both greens and roots. They're excellent for building gardening confidence and skills.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

Purple Top Turnip represents an exceptional choice for homeowners seeking a reliable, versatile vegetable that provides both immediate harvest gratification and long-term food security benefits. Its distinctive appearance, excellent flavor development, and remarkable adaptability make it ideal for gardeners wanting maximum value from their growing space while enjoying the satisfaction of producing traditional, nutritious food.

The key to success with Purple Top Turnip lies in understanding its dual-purpose nature and managing it appropriately for both green and root production. Proper timing, adequate spacing, and consistent care reward gardeners with harvests that can provide fresh nutrition throughout the growing season and stored food for winter months.

By following the comprehensive growing and management guidelines outlined in this guide, you can enjoy reliable harvests of both nutritious greens and flavorful roots that will enhance your family's nutrition while providing the satisfaction of growing a classic, time-tested garden crop.

Whether you're a beginning gardener seeking reliable success, an experienced grower wanting to add traditional varieties to your garden, a family needing maximum nutrition from limited space, or someone interested in food storage and preservation, Purple Top Turnip offers an unmatched combination of reliability, productivity, and culinary value.

This variety represents the perfect choice for practical gardeners who appreciate vegetables that simply work - providing dependable results, excellent nutrition, and versatile harvest options while requiring only basic gardening skills and care to achieve outstanding success.

Happy gardening, and enjoy the reliable productivity and distinctive flavor that Purple Top Turnip will bring to your garden and table for many seasons to come!