When preparing the soil, remove stones and other debris that cause malformed roots. Heavy soil may cause poorly formed roots. Turnips are planted in early April and then again in July, for a fall crop. When seedlings are large enough for greens, thin them to 4 inch spacings. Sow some seed every 4 weeks to give a continuous supply.
Turnips get tough and bitter if left in the ground too long.
After thinning, apply a 3 inch mulch. Rapid growth gives best quality. Harvest the roots when three inches across. If left longer they may be tough and bitter. The flavor is not improved by exposure to freezing.