When to Plant Turnip in Cairns — Tropical Guide

Turnip

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Turnips are a fast-growing, cool-season root crop that matures in 6-10 weeks. Both the root and the nutritious leafy tops (turnip greens) are edible. They are easier and faster than swedes, making them a better choice for warmer Australian zones where swedes struggle. An underrated vegetable that deserves a place in every winter garden.

Current Growing Conditions

Soil temperature: 25.2°C (optimal range: 7–30°C) ✓ Ready to plant

How to Grow Turnip in Tropical Australia

When to Plant

Plant March-July (dry/cool season). Turnips bolt quickly in tropical heat. Choose fast-maturing varieties and harvest young.

Soil
Well-drained, fertile loam with good moisture retention. Avoid heavy clay or compacted soil which causes misshapen roots. Prepare with well-rotted compost.
pH Range
6.0-7.5
Sunlight
Full sun to light shade
Spacing
12cm apart, 30cm between rows
Watering
Consistent, even moisture is critical. Irregular watering produces woody, pithy, bitter roots. Water deeply 2-3 times per week in dry conditions.

Companion plants: Pea, Onion, Garlic, Nasturtium (trap crop for aphids)

Avoid planting near: Other brassicas (shared pests and diseases), Strawberry

Tropical Growing Tips for Turnip

Recommended Varieties

  • Purple Top Milan (fast)
  • Tokyo Cross (heat-tolerant)
  • Hakurei (Japanese salad type)

Key Challenges

  • Rapid bolting in heat
  • Caterpillar pressure
  • Roots become woody quickly in warmth

Pro Tips

  • Plant in the coolest months only
  • Harvest young (6-8 weeks) before heat causes bolting
  • Japanese salad types (Hakurei, Tokyo Cross) are more heat-tolerant

Harvesting Turnip

When ready: Roots are 5-8cm diameter (golf ball to tennis ball size) for best flavour. Shoulder visible at soil level. Harvest EARLY - turnips become woody, pithy, and bitter if left too long.

How to harvest: Grasp foliage near crown and pull. Water bed beforehand if soil is dry. For larger winter types, loosen soil with a fork first.

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