When to Plant Turnip Greens in TN

Turnip greens are a popular vegetable in Tennessee that are easy to grow and are packed with nutrients. They are a great addition to any garden, and can be planted in both the spring and fall. In this article, we will explore when to plant turnip greens in TN and some tips for growing them successfully.

Spring Planting

The best season to plant turnip greens in TN is the spring. The ideal time to plant turnip greens in the state is between March and May. If you are looking to plant your turnips in the spring, you should start by preparing your soil. Turnips prefer well-draining soil that is rich in nitrogen. To get the best results, add nitrogen-rich compost or fertilizer to your soil before planting.

Once your soil is ready, you can begin sowing your turnips. Sow your seeds 1/4 inch deep, and space them about 2 inches apart. This will give your turnips enough room to grow and thrive. After sowing your seeds, cover them with soil, and water them thoroughly. Make sure your soil is kept moist during the germination process.

Fall Planting

If you miss the spring planting window, don't worry! You can still plant turnip greens in the fall. In TN, the ideal time to plant turnips in the fall is between August and September. Fall planting is a great option because turnip greens are typically sweeter and more tender when grown in cooler temperatures.

To prepare for fall planting, start by removing any leftover summer crops from your garden beds. Then, add compost or fertilizer to your soil to give your turnips the nutrients they need. When you're ready to plant, sow your turnip seeds 1/4 inch deep and 2 inches apart, just like in the spring.

Turnip Greens Care

Once your turnip greens have germinated, it is essential to keep them well-watered. Turnip greens require about 1 inch of water per week. You should also fertilize your turnip greens every two weeks to ensure they continue to grow healthy and strong.

When your turnip greens reach about 6 to 8 inches in height, thin them out so that they are spaced about 4 inches apart. This will give them plenty of space to grow and will help prevent overcrowding.

Harvesting Turnip Greens

Turnip greens are typically ready to harvest in about 8 to 10 weeks after planting. You can tell that your turnip greens are ready to be harvested when their leaves are about 6 to 8 inches long. To harvest, simply cut the outer leaves off of the plants, leaving the center leaves intact. This will allow your turnip greens to continue growing and producing new leaves.

Conclusion

Growing turnip greens in TN is easy and rewarding. Whether you choose to plant in the spring or fall, make sure to give your turnips plenty of space, water, and fertilizer to ensure healthy growth. With a little care and attention, you'll be rewarded with delicious and nutritious turnip greens that are perfect for cooking and eating.