When to plant turnip 🌿
Turnip takes 35–60 days to mature, spaced 4" apart at 0.5" deep. Direct-sow only — does not transplant well.
Planting dates by USDA zone
| Zone | Direct sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 3 | April 27 – June 8 | July 6 – July 27 |
| Zone 4 | April 17 – May 29 | June 26 – July 17 |
| Zone 5 | April 3 – May 15 | June 12 – July 3 |
| Zone 6 | March 18 – April 29 | May 27 – June 17 |
| Zone 7 | March 4 – April 15 | May 13 – June 3 |
| Zone 8 | February 16 – March 29 | April 26 – May 17 |
| Zone 9 | January 18 – February 29 | March 28 – April 18 |
| Zone 10 | January 2 – February 13 | March 12 – April 2 |
Dates are averages — adjust ±1–2 weeks for your microclimate. Need your exact dates? Enter your zip code below.
Get your personalized turnip planting dates
Care tips
- Harvest small (2–3 in.) for sweet roots.
- Greens are delicious — pick young leaves.
- Sow again 8 weeks before first fall frost.
Good companions
Pea, Bean, Lettuce.
Read more: Companion planting chart for vegetables
Track your turnip harvest with BotaNotes
Log planting dates, get AI-powered care reminders, and journal every harvest. Free 15-day trial.
Frequently asked questions
When should I plant turnip outdoors in zone 5?▾
In USDA zone 5, direct sow turnip between April 3 and May 15, relative to the average last spring frost on May 1.
When should I plant turnip outdoors in zone 6?▾
In USDA zone 6, direct sow turnip between March 18 and April 29, relative to the average last spring frost on April 15.
When should I plant turnip outdoors in zone 7?▾
In USDA zone 7, direct sow turnip between March 4 and April 15, relative to the average last spring frost on April 1.
When should I plant turnip outdoors in zone 8?▾
In USDA zone 8, direct sow turnip between February 16 and March 29, relative to the average last spring frost on March 15.
How long does turnip take to grow?▾
Turnip typically takes 35–60 days to mature, with harvest beginning roughly 6–9 weeks after the last spring frost.