What it is
Turnip (Brassica rapa) is in the Brassicaceae (Mustard) family. An old survival staple — fast roots and greens from the same plant, thriving in cool Texas months.
How to grow it
It wants full sun, water it moderate, and give it average, loose soil. Target a soil pH around 6.0–7.0. Space plants about 3–4 in apart. Expect roughly 40–60. Cool-season.
How it's used
Turnip is used: roasted, mashed, raw; greens cooked.
🔎 How to identify it
- Rough bristly leaves
- White-and-purple round root
- Bolts in heat
Edibility
PartsRoot and greens
UsesRoasted, mashed, raw; greens cooked
CautionNone.
🌤 Before you plant: check the live 7-day garden weather to time it right for frost and heat.
Part of the free Texas Roots plant database, compiled by Jordan Polasek from his greenhouse in El Campo, Texas. Free to read and share. If it helped, the best thanks is to grow something.