Growing Turnip greens / Foliage cultivation

Turnip greens, also known as turnip tops, are a relatively unknown vegetable and is certainly not available in every greengrocery store. They are the young, long stems and leaves of certain types of cabbage. They have a spicy and slightly pungent taste. Turnip greens are easy to grow, both directly in the garden and in the greenhouse. It is one of the first vegetables that can be sown. Turnip greens can be eaten raw, cooked, stewed or stir-fried. For example, they are very tasty in a stew.

Growing your own turnip greens/foliage from seeds

Turnip greens belong to the cruciferous family (Brassicaceae) and are not actually a separate species of vegetable. It are the stems and leaves of tuberous plants, such as turnips. Sowing the seeds close together produces leaves and no tubers. The flavour is reminiscent of cress. It is a very healthy and easy-to-grow vegetable.

Sowing and planting turnip greens

Turnip greens can be sown both in spring and autumn. The warm months are less suitable as they quickly bolt. Also, there is a higher risk of diseases and pests then, like with other brassicas. They grow quite quickly and can be harvested 6 to 8 weeks after sowing. In spring, you can sow turnip greens under glass from January and outdoors from March. For a late crop, you can sow them in the greenhouse in autumn. Sow one seed every 1-2 cm in rows at a row distance of 15 cm.

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Position and soil for growing Turnip Greens

Turnip greens grow best in a sunny spot, but partial shade is also no problem. Turnip greens need loose, fertile, non-acidic soil. If necessary, first work some compost and/or lime into the soil.

How to care of your turnip green plants

Turnip greens, due to their short cultivation period, hardly need any care. Keeping the bed free of weeds and watering on time in drought is all. Fertilising is not necessary for this fast-growing vegetable. However, to prepare the bed before sowing, you can work mature compost through the soil.

When and how to harvest turnip greens?

Turnip greens can be harvested about 6-8 weeks after sowing. Harvest them when they are about 15-20 cm in size, this is when they taste best.

How to preserve turnip greens

Turnip greens have a very short shelf life, even in the refrigerator. It is best to process them immediately after harvesting. You can also freeze them, but blanch first.

Are turnip greens healthy?

Turnip greens are very healthy. They are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. In addition, they also contain antioxidants.

Turnip greens seeds in our collection

In our range we have different types of turnip greens. Both for early and autumn cultivation.

Tips to grow turnip greens

Sow turnip greens relatively close to each other so that they do not form tubers. However, give them enough space to allow the plants to form enough leaves.

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