Turnip greens, the leafy tops of the turnip plant (Brassica rapa), are a nutritional powerhouse and a staple in many cuisines, particularly in the Southern United States. Knowing exactly when to harvest these greens is crucial for maximizing their flavor and nutritional value. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about timing your turnip green harvest.
Understanding the Turnip Plant
Before diving into harvest times, it’s important to understand the turnip plant itself. The turnip is a root vegetable, closely related to other cruciferous vegetables like kale, collard greens, and broccoli. Both the root and the greens are edible, offering different textures and flavors.
Turnips are typically grown as a cool-season crop, thriving in temperatures between 60°F and 65°F. They are relatively fast-growing, with some varieties maturing in as little as a month. This quick growth makes them a popular choice for gardeners looking for a quick return on their investment.
Growth Stages and Leaf Development
The turnip plant progresses through several stages of growth. Initially, the plant focuses on developing its root system and a rosette of leaves. These initial leaves are small and tender. As the plant matures, the leaves grow larger and may become slightly more textured and robust.
The flavor of the greens changes as they mature. Younger leaves tend to be milder, while older leaves can develop a slightly more pungent or bitter taste. Understanding these growth stages is crucial for determining the optimal harvest time.
Factors Influencing Harvest Time
Several factors influence when turnip greens are ready for harvest. These include the variety of turnip, the planting time, and the desired flavor profile.
Turnip Variety
Different turnip varieties mature at different rates. Some varieties are specifically bred for their greens, producing abundant foliage and milder flavors. Others are primarily grown for their roots, with the greens being a secondary harvest. Check your seed packet or plant label for specific information on the maturity time for your chosen variety.
Common varieties known for their greens include ‘Seven Top,’ ‘Topper,’ and ‘Shogoin.’ ‘Purple Top White Globe’ is a popular dual-purpose variety, providing both tasty greens and a good-sized root.
Planting Time
The planting time significantly impacts the harvest window. Turnips are typically planted in early spring or late summer/early fall. Spring-planted turnips will mature before the heat of summer, while fall-planted turnips will mature during the cooler autumn months or even into winter in milder climates.
For a spring crop, plant seeds a few weeks before the last expected frost. For a fall crop, plant seeds about 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost. The specific planting date will vary depending on your local climate.
Desired Flavor Profile
The preferred flavor of the greens is another important factor to consider. As mentioned earlier, younger leaves are generally milder, while older leaves can be more pungent. If you prefer a milder flavor, harvest the greens earlier in the season. If you enjoy a more robust flavor, allow the greens to mature further.
Consider also that frost can actually sweeten turnip greens. Many gardeners believe that greens harvested after a light frost have a superior flavor.
Determining Readiness for Harvest
There are several visual cues to look for when determining if your turnip greens are ready to be picked.
Leaf Size and Appearance
The size and appearance of the leaves are good indicators of maturity. Look for leaves that are at least 4-6 inches long, but not overly mature or tough. The leaves should be vibrant green and free from any signs of disease or insect damage. Avoid harvesting leaves that are yellowing or wilting.
Pay attention to the texture of the leaves as well. Young leaves will be tender and smooth, while older leaves may be slightly more coarse or hairy.
Harvesting Individual Leaves vs. Entire Plant
You can harvest turnip greens in two ways: by picking individual leaves or by harvesting the entire plant.
Harvesting individual leaves, also known as “cut-and-come-again” harvesting, allows you to extend the harvest period. Simply snip off the outer leaves, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. This method encourages the plant to produce more leaves throughout the season.
Harvesting the entire plant involves pulling up the entire turnip, root and all. This is typically done when the root has reached a desirable size.
Days to Maturity
Most turnip varieties will indicate a “days to maturity” on the seed packet. This refers to the number of days from planting until the plant is ready for harvest. This is a helpful guideline, but it’s important to remember that the actual maturity time can vary depending on weather conditions and other factors.
Regularly check your plants and monitor their progress to determine the optimal harvest time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Harvesting Turnip Greens
Once you’ve determined that your turnip greens are ready to be harvested, follow these steps:
- Choose a dry day for harvesting. Avoid harvesting after a rain, as wet leaves can be more susceptible to bruising and spoilage.
- Gather your tools. You’ll need a sharp knife or scissors and a basket or container to collect the greens.
- If harvesting individual leaves, carefully snip off the outer leaves, leaving the inner leaves intact. Cut the leaves close to the base of the plant.
- If harvesting the entire plant, gently loosen the soil around the turnip and pull the plant up from the base.
- Remove any soil or debris from the greens.
- Wash the greens thoroughly in cold water.
- Store the greens in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. They will keep for several days.
Extending the Harvest Season
There are several things you can do to extend the harvest season for your turnip greens.
Succession Planting
Succession planting involves planting new seeds every few weeks. This ensures a continuous supply of greens throughout the season. Plant a new batch of seeds every 2-3 weeks to keep the harvest coming.
Using Row Covers
Row covers can protect your turnip greens from frost and cold weather, allowing you to extend the harvest season into the fall and winter months. Row covers are lightweight fabrics that are placed over plants to provide insulation and protection.
Choosing Cold-Hardy Varieties
Select turnip varieties that are known for their cold hardiness. These varieties can withstand colder temperatures and are more likely to survive frosts.
Storing and Preserving Turnip Greens
Turnip greens are best used fresh, but they can also be stored or preserved for later use.
Refrigerating
To store turnip greens in the refrigerator, wash them thoroughly and dry them completely. Wrap the greens in a paper towel and place them in a plastic bag. Store them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. They should keep for several days.
Freezing
Turnip greens can be frozen for longer storage. To freeze them, wash and chop the greens. Blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain the greens and pack them into freezer bags or containers. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 12 months.
Canning
Canning is another option for preserving turnip greens. However, it’s important to follow proper canning procedures to ensure that the greens are safely preserved.
Common Problems and Solutions
Like all crops, turnip greens can be susceptible to certain problems. Here are some common issues and solutions:
Pests
Common pests that attack turnip greens include aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage worms. These pests can damage the leaves and reduce the yield. Control pests by using insecticidal soap, diatomaceous earth, or row covers.
Diseases
Turnip greens can also be affected by diseases such as downy mildew and white rust. These diseases can cause yellowing, spotting, or other damage to the leaves. Prevent diseases by providing good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and using disease-resistant varieties.
Bolting
Bolting occurs when the plant prematurely flowers and goes to seed. This can happen when the weather is too hot or when the plant is stressed. Prevent bolting by planting turnips in cool weather and providing adequate water and nutrients.
Nutritional Benefits of Turnip Greens
Turnip greens are packed with nutrients, making them a healthy addition to any diet. They are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, calcium, and fiber. They also contain antioxidants and other beneficial compounds.
Incorporating turnip greens into your diet can help boost your immune system, improve bone health, and protect against chronic diseases.
Incorporating Turnip Greens into Your Diet
Turnip greens can be cooked in a variety of ways. They can be steamed, boiled, sautéed, or added to soups and stews. They are also delicious when eaten raw in salads.
Some popular ways to prepare turnip greens include:
- Sautéed with garlic and olive oil
- Braised with bacon or ham hocks
- Added to collard green recipes
- Used in salads or slaws
Turnip greens offer a delicious and nutritious way to add variety to your diet.
In conclusion, knowing when to pick turnip greens depends on the variety, planting time, and desired flavor. By monitoring your plants closely and following these guidelines, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious and nutritious turnip greens.
When is the best time to harvest turnip greens for optimal flavor?
The optimal time to harvest turnip greens for the best flavor is typically when the leaves are young and tender, generally about 30-40 days after planting. Look for leaves that are around 4-6 inches long and vibrant green in color. Harvesting at this stage ensures a milder, less bitter taste, and a more pleasant texture.
Avoid harvesting turnip greens that are overgrown, yellowing, or damaged by pests. Larger, older leaves tend to be tougher and have a stronger, more bitter flavor. Consistent harvesting of younger leaves also encourages continued growth, extending the harvest period of your turnip plants.
How do I know if my turnip greens are ready to be picked?
Several factors indicate that your turnip greens are ready for harvest. Primarily, leaf size is a key indicator; aim for leaves around 4-6 inches in length. Check the color of the leaves – they should be a vibrant, healthy green. Avoid greens with yellowing or brown spots, as these may indicate disease or pest infestation.
Another way to assess readiness is by examining the overall health of the plant. If the plant is vigorous and actively growing, and the leaves are free from significant damage, it’s likely ready to harvest. Taste a small piece of a leaf; if it’s tender and not overly bitter, it’s time to start picking.
What tools do I need to harvest turnip greens?
Harvesting turnip greens requires minimal tools. A sharp knife or a pair of scissors or garden shears are the most essential. These tools will allow you to cleanly cut the leaves from the plant without damaging the remaining foliage or the turnip root, if you intend to harvest it later.
In addition to cutting tools, a basket or bag is needed to collect the harvested greens. Ensure the basket or bag is clean to prevent contamination of the greens. Gloves are optional but recommended to protect your hands from soil and potential irritants on the plant.
Can I harvest turnip greens multiple times from the same plant?
Yes, you can indeed harvest turnip greens multiple times from the same plant. This is known as a “cut-and-come-again” method. Instead of harvesting the entire plant at once, selectively harvest the outer, mature leaves, leaving the inner, younger leaves to continue growing.
This repeated harvesting encourages the plant to produce more leaves, extending your harvest period. To ensure continued growth, avoid removing more than one-third of the plant’s foliage at any given time. This allows the plant to retain sufficient energy for regrowth and maintain its overall health.
How do I properly wash turnip greens after harvesting?
Washing turnip greens thoroughly after harvesting is crucial to remove any dirt, debris, or potential pests. Begin by filling a large bowl or sink with cold water. Submerge the greens in the water and gently swish them around to dislodge any loose particles.
Lift the greens out of the water, allowing the dirt to settle at the bottom of the bowl. Repeat this process several times with fresh water until the water remains clear after washing. You can also use a salad spinner to remove excess water after washing. Thoroughly dried greens will store better.
How should I store turnip greens to keep them fresh after harvesting?
To keep turnip greens fresh after harvesting, proper storage is essential. After washing and thoroughly drying the greens, wrap them loosely in a clean paper towel. This helps absorb any excess moisture, preventing them from becoming slimy.
Place the wrapped greens in a perforated plastic bag or a storage container with a lid, but don’t seal it tightly. Store the greens in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. Properly stored turnip greens can last for up to a week, although they are best used within a few days for optimal flavor and texture.
What are some common pests and diseases that affect turnip greens, and how can I manage them?
Turnip greens are susceptible to several common pests and diseases. Common pests include aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage worms, which can damage the leaves and reduce yield. Diseases like downy mildew and leaf spot can also affect turnip greens, causing discoloration and weakening the plant.
To manage pests and diseases, implement preventative measures such as crop rotation and good garden sanitation. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of infestation or disease. For mild infestations, hand-picking pests or using insecticidal soap can be effective. For more severe cases or diseases, consider using appropriate organic pesticides or fungicides, following label instructions carefully.