When to Plant Turnips in the UK

Turnips grow well in cool conditions and can be planted more than once during the growing season. Planting at the right time helps roots develop properly and prevents plants from becoming woody.

Turnips are usually grown from seed planted directly into the soil.

Regular sowing can provide harvests over several months.

Spring planting

Turnip seeds are often planted from March onwards, once soil becomes workable.

Spring planting usually produces quick-growing roots.

Cool weather helps roots develop evenly.

Late summer planting

Turnips can also be planted in late summer for autumn harvests.

Later planting often produces good-quality roots in cooler weather.

Growing turnips in containers

Turnips can be planted in containers filled with compost.

For container advice, see growing turnips in containers.

Planning turnip harvests

Because turnips grow quickly, several sowings can provide continuous harvests.

Most turnips are ready within a few weeks to a few months, depending on variety.

For growing advice, see how to grow turnips in the UK.