How can I accelerate turnip growth?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.To facilitate rapid turnip growth, you will need to implement specific practices targeting development factors. Fast-maturing varieties such as Tokyo Cross reach harvest in 35 days. Soil preparation enables immediate access to nutrients, promoting rapid growth. Water management provides for no moisture stress delays. With these strategies, I am harvesting three weeks earlier.
Variety Selection
- Tokyo Cross matures in 35 days
- Hakurei offers 38-day harvest window
- Scarlet Queen reaches maturity in 50 days
- Avoid slow varieties like Golden Ball (70 days)
Soil Optimization
- Incorporate 3 inches of compost before planting
- Maintain pH between 6.0-6.8 for nutrient availability
- Use raised beds for faster soil warming
- Apply balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer at seeding
Soil moisture control really determines the rate of growth. Maintain soil moisture at normal levels, while avoiding waterlogging. Sandy soils should be watered daily, while clay soils should be watered every third day. I use drip irrigation for less water loss. I install moisture sensors to maintain optimal soil moisture levels at 50%, which is ideal for the best growth rate.
Controlling temperature speeds up growth. Germination occurs most efficiently in soil temperatures in the 60-65°F range. Use black plastic mulch to warm the soil earlier in the spring. Give them some afternoon shade when a heat wave arrives and the temperature rises above 75°F. I use floating row covers to act as a mini greenhouse for earlier plantings.
Nutrient Boosting
- Apply fish emulsion every two weeks
- Side dress with compost tea at thinning stage
- Use kelp extract for micronutrients
- Foliar feed with diluted seaweed solution
Environmental Optimization
- Ensure 6+ hours direct sunlight daily
- Maintain 60-70°F air temperature
- Use reflective mulch to increase light exposure
- Install windbreaks to reduce stress
For optimal outcome, be aware of typical growth limits. Overcrowding inhibits growth to 4 inches apart. Disturbing the roots halts plant growth and prevents the need for transplanting. Compacted soil hinders growth; use a broadfork before sowing. I sprout seeds for 48 hours before planting as a kick start for germination.
Read the full article: When to Plant Turnips for Best Results
