How to grow Turnip in the UK
Brassica rapa
Turnip (Brassica rapa) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Quick crop — ready in 6-10 weeks. Pull young; old turnips go woody. Tops are edible too. This guide covers when and how to sow Turnip, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Turnip
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar Sow | Apr | May Sow | Jun Harvest | Jul Harvest | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov Harvest | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, moisture-retentive soil
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.5
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 1.5 cm
- Spacing
- Thin to 15 cm, rows 30 cm
- Sowing
- Sow Mar–Aug; fast — ready in 6–10 weeks
- Growing
- Keep weed-free and evenly watered; mulch to hold moisture
- Harvest & upkeep
- Pull young and tender, golf-ball to tennis-ball size
- Watch for
- Club root, flea beetle
Companion planting for Turnip
Grows well with:
Keep apart from:
Add Turnip to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Turnip FAQs
When should I sow Turnip in the UK?
In the UK, sow Turnip in March, May. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Turnip?
Turnip grows well alongside Beetroot, Celery, Dill, French Marigold, Pot Marigold, Mint. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
What should you not plant near Turnip?
Keep Turnip away from Strawberry, Beef Tomato, Cherry Tomato, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Turnip need?
Turnip prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Turnip ready to harvest?
Turnip is typically ready to harvest in June, July, August, September, October, November in the UK.
Is Turnip easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Quick crop — ready in 6-10 weeks. Pull young; old turnips go woody. Tops are edible too.