Can You Grow Turnips From the Top? Unveiling the Secrets of Turnip Propagation

Turnips, those humble root vegetables with their peppery bite and earthy sweetness, are a staple in many gardens and kitchens. But have you ever wondered if you could propagate them from the leafy green tops that are often discarded? The answer is both yes and no, with a bit of horticultural nuance involved. Let’s delve into the intriguing world of turnip propagation and explore the possibilities.

Table of Contents

Understanding Turnip Biology: Roots, Shoots, and Reproduction

To understand whether you can grow turnips from the top, we first need to grasp the basics of turnip biology. A turnip plant is a biennial, meaning it has a two-year life cycle. In the first year, it focuses on vegetative growth, producing the root we eat and the leafy greens we sometimes cook. In the second year, it bolts, sending up a flower stalk, producing seeds, and completing its life cycle.

The edible “turnip” is actually a swollen hypocotyl – the stem of the seedling, located just below the cotyledons (seed leaves) and above the root. It’s this modified stem that stores energy for the plant. The leafy top is simply the above-ground foliage that facilitates photosynthesis.

The Role of the Crown

The crucial part of the turnip, in terms of potential regrowth, is the crown. The crown is the area where the leafy tops connect to the swollen root (hypocotyl). This is where the plant’s meristematic tissue is located. Meristematic tissue contains undifferentiated cells that can develop into new plant parts, including roots and shoots.

The (Limited) Potential of Turnip Top Regrowth

While you can’t grow a whole new turnip root from just the leafy top, you can encourage the existing crown to produce more greens. This is akin to regrowing lettuce or celery from the base.

The key is to leave a portion of the crown attached to the turnip top when you harvest or prepare the vegetable. This remnant of the crown contains the meristematic tissue necessary for regrowth.

How to Attempt Regrowing Turnip Greens

Here’s a simple method to try regrowing turnip greens:

Cut: When preparing your turnips, cut the tops off, leaving about an inch or two of the crown attached to the leaves.
Soak: Place the turnip top in a shallow dish of water, ensuring that only the very bottom of the crown is submerged.
Sunlight: Place the dish in a bright, sunny location, but avoid direct, intense sunlight.
Water Change: Change the water every day or two to prevent bacterial growth.
Observe: Within a few days, you should start to see new green shoots emerging from the crown.
Planting (Optional): Once the new shoots are a few inches tall and have developed some roots, you can carefully transplant the turnip top into a pot of soil. However, keep in mind that it likely won’t produce another large root. It will mainly focus on growing more greens.

Why This Isn’t True Propagation

It’s important to understand that this method is not true propagation. You’re not creating a new turnip plant genetically identical to the parent. You’re simply encouraging the existing plant to regrow its foliage. The original root will eventually deplete its resources and decompose.

Growing Turnips From Seed: The Reliable Method

The most reliable and efficient way to grow turnips is from seed. Turnip seeds are readily available and germinate easily.

Direct Sowing vs. Transplanting

Turnips can be direct sown into the garden or started indoors and then transplanted. Direct sowing is generally preferred because turnips don’t always transplant well.

Direct Sowing: Sow seeds directly into the garden soil about ¼ to ½ inch deep, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart. Thin the seedlings to about 4-6 inches apart once they emerge.
Transplanting: If starting indoors, sow seeds in seed trays or pots about 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. Harden off the seedlings before transplanting them into the garden.

Optimal Growing Conditions

Turnips thrive in cool weather and well-drained soil.

Soil: They prefer a slightly acidic soil pH (6.0-6.5). Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight: Turnips need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during germination and early growth.
Fertilizing: A balanced fertilizer can be applied at planting time. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can result in excessive foliage growth and small roots.

Harvesting Turnips

Turnips are typically ready to harvest in 45-60 days, depending on the variety.

Root Size: Harvest when the roots are about 2-3 inches in diameter. Larger turnips can become woody and bitter.
Greens: Turnip greens can be harvested throughout the growing season.

Can You Replant a Turnip Root to Get Seeds?

Yes, you can replant a turnip root to induce bolting and seed production. This is how turnips complete their biennial life cycle.

The Overwintering Process

To get seeds, you need to allow the turnip to overwinter.

Harvest Select Turnips: In the fall, before the ground freezes, carefully dig up some of your best-looking turnips.
Storage: Cut off the tops, leaving about 1-2 inches of the crown. Store the turnips in a cool, humid place, such as a root cellar or refrigerator, at a temperature of around 32-40°F (0-4°C). Pack them in slightly damp sand or sawdust to prevent them from drying out.
Replanting: In the spring, after the last frost, replant the turnips in the garden, spacing them about 12-18 inches apart.

Bolting and Seed Production

Once replanted, the turnips will begin to bolt, sending up a tall flower stalk. The flowers will attract pollinators, and the plants will eventually produce seed pods.

Pollination: Turnips are cross-pollinated, so if you’re growing multiple varieties, be aware that the seeds may not be true to type.
Seed Collection: Once the seed pods are dry and brown, harvest them and allow them to dry completely.
Seed Storage: Thresh the seed pods to release the seeds. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place.

Turnip Varieties and Their Characteristics

Many turnip varieties are available, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are a few popular options:

Purple Top White Globe: A classic variety with a purple top and white bottom. It’s known for its mild flavor and smooth texture.
Tokyo Cross: A fast-maturing variety that produces small, round, white roots. It’s known for its sweet flavor and crisp texture.
Golden Ball: A yellow-fleshed variety with a sweet, nutty flavor.
Seven Top: Grown primarily for its greens, which are tender and flavorful. The root is small and not typically eaten.

Troubleshooting Turnip Growing Problems

Turnips are generally easy to grow, but they can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases.

Root Maggots: These larvae feed on the roots of turnips, causing them to become stunted and distorted.
Flea Beetles: These small beetles chew holes in the leaves of turnips.
Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can weaken turnip plants.
Clubroot: A fungal disease that causes the roots of turnips to become swollen and distorted.

Preventative Measures

To prevent these problems, consider the following:

Crop Rotation: Rotate your crops to avoid building up pests and diseases in the soil.
Row Covers: Use row covers to protect your turnips from pests.
Good Soil Drainage: Ensure that your soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.
Weed Control: Keep your garden free of weeds, which can harbor pests and diseases.

Turnip Tops: A Culinary Delicacy

Don’t discard those turnip tops! They’re a nutritious and delicious addition to many dishes. Turnip greens are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and calcium.

Cooking with Turnip Greens

Turnip greens can be cooked in a variety of ways:

Sautéed: Sautéed with garlic and olive oil.
Steamed: Steamed until tender.
Boiled: Boiled in water or broth.
Added to Soups and Stews: Added to soups, stews, and casseroles.

Conclusion: The Versatility of the Turnip Plant

While you can’t truly propagate a new turnip root from the top, you can encourage the regrowth of the greens. The best way to grow turnips is from seed, ensuring a bountiful harvest of both roots and greens. So, embrace the versatility of the turnip plant and enjoy its many culinary and nutritional benefits!

Can I really grow new turnip plants from just the leafy tops after harvesting the root?

It’s a common misconception that you can simply replant the leafy greens of a turnip and expect a new root to form. While turnips are biennials, meaning they live for two years and produce seeds in their second year, the root is developed from the plant’s initial growth. Cutting off the top essentially removes the primary growing point responsible for root formation. The plant’s energy is already invested in the existing root; severing the greens doesn’t trigger a regenerative process to create another sizable turnip.

However, you can certainly encourage new leafy growth from the turnip top. If you place the top in water, keeping the bottom of the white stalk submerged, it will often sprout new leaves. This isn’t growing a new turnip bulb, but it’s essentially regrowing turnip greens which are edible. These regrown greens can be used in salads or cooked similarly to other leafy greens.

What part of the turnip top is necessary for potential regrowth?

The most crucial part of the turnip top for any chance of regrowth is the very bottom portion, the white stalk that connects to the root. This area contains the dormant buds or growth nodes that are capable of producing new shoots. If you simply cut off the leafy green part, you’re unlikely to see any new growth as it lacks these vital regeneration points.

Therefore, when you’re considering regrowing a turnip top, ensure you’re retaining at least an inch or two of the white stalk. This portion should be free from damage and relatively firm. It’s this section that you will submerge in water to encourage the development of new leaves. Without this, the odds of successful regrowth are minimal.

Can I plant a turnip top directly into soil instead of using water?

While submerging the turnip top in water is a common method for initiating regrowth, you can also try planting it directly into soil. However, the success rate might be lower compared to the water method. The key is maintaining consistent moisture and providing a suitable environment for the plant to establish new roots.

When planting the top in soil, ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Bury the white stalk portion, leaving the leafy greens exposed. Water thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. A humid environment can also help, so consider covering the planted top with a clear plastic container or bag to create a mini-greenhouse.

How long does it take to see new growth from a turnip top?

The time it takes to see new growth from a turnip top varies depending on factors such as temperature, light, and the health of the original turnip. Generally, you can expect to see new leaves emerging within one to two weeks if the conditions are favorable.

However, it’s important to be patient and provide consistent care during this period. Keep the water fresh (if using the water method) and ensure the soil remains consistently moist (if planting directly). If after two weeks you don’t see any signs of new growth, it’s possible the turnip top isn’t viable and you might want to try with a different one.

Will the regrown turnip greens taste the same as the original turnip greens?

Generally, the regrown turnip greens will have a similar taste to the original greens, though there may be slight variations depending on environmental factors and the overall health of the plant. The flavor is typically described as slightly peppery and earthy, similar to mustard greens or arugula.

The age of the regrown greens can also affect the taste. Younger leaves tend to be more tender and milder in flavor, while older leaves can become tougher and more pungent. It’s best to harvest the greens when they are relatively young and tender for the best flavor and texture.

What are the best growing conditions for regrowing turnip tops?

To maximize your chances of success when regrowing turnip tops, several key factors need consideration. Sufficient sunlight is crucial for photosynthesis and new growth. A location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal. Adequate moisture is also essential, so ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Temperature plays a significant role, too. Turnips thrive in cooler temperatures, ideally between 60-70°F (15-21°C). Avoid extreme heat or cold, as this can hinder growth. Finally, ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases. This can be achieved by spacing the plants appropriately and avoiding overcrowding.

Can I get turnip seeds from the regrown turnip top greens?

While you can encourage leafy growth from turnip tops, you won’t get seeds in the same season. Turnips are biennial plants, meaning they complete their life cycle over two years. In the first year, they develop the root and greens. In the second year, if overwintered, they will bolt (send up a flower stalk) and produce seeds.

Regrowing the top encourages new green growth, but not the reproductive phase. To get turnip seeds, you’d need to overwinter the original turnip root, allow it to sprout in the spring, and then let it flower and produce seeds. Saving these seeds allows you to start the process anew.