Vegetable · Brassicaceae family
turnip
Brassica rapa subsp. rapa
In short a 10-second read
Turnip (vegetable) grows to 0.3–0.45 m tall and 0.15–0.3 m wide when mature. It grows best in full sun, in average to moist soil. Sow in March–August. Harvest in May–December.
× spread 0.15–0.3 m
Where to plant
Sun and soil.
It grows best in full sun, in average to moist soil.
Sun
Elsewhere it will grow less well.
Soil and water
average to moist · watering: moderate
Soil: humus-rich, loamy
Soil pH 5.5–8
How much space it takes
Mature size.
The mature plant next to a person (175 cm).
Next to a person
The final size depends on the cultivar and the spot — we give the range from smallest to largest.
Calendar
What to do and when.
Months for Central Europe. The line shows the current month.
The year at a glance
Pruning
harvest regularly (as needed)
Sowing
direct sowing: March–August
Harvest
May–December
Winter protection
does not overwinter
Frequently asked
Quick answers.
When do I sow turnip?
In March–August (direct sowing).
When is turnip harvested?
In May–December.
Does turnip tolerate shade?
No, it needs full sun.
How much space does turnip need?
At maturity 0.15–0.3 m wide and 0.3–0.45 m tall; recommended spacing 20 cm.
Where the data comes from
The data is indicative — we are still comparing it with further sources. Last checked 2 September 2026.
Show sources (6)
- NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox — Brassica rapa
- RHS — Turnips — grow your own
- Wikidata (CC0) — Brassica rapa subsp. rapa
- Invasive plant lists — this species is not on them: EU, Slovakia, EASIN
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