Growing Turnips in Zone 7A

Turnips are a fast, cool-season root vegetable that’s often overlooked. Baby turnips are tender and mild; larger ones are earthier and better roasted.

Zone 7A enjoys a long growing season. You can often get two plantings of cool-season crops (spring and fall).

Top Growing Tips

• Direct sow 6 weeks before last frost or in late summer for fall harvest
• Thin to 4-6 inches apart — crowded plants don’t form good roots
• Harvest small (2-3 inches) for sweetest flavor
• The greens are edible and delicious sautéed with garlic
• Fall-sown turnips taste sweeter after a light frost

Companion Planting

Good companions: peas, onions, garlic

Avoid planting near: mustard relatives (can share pests)

Harvest Timeline

35-60 days from seed; best at 2-3 inches in diameter

About Zone 7A

USDA Hardiness Zone 7A has an average last spring frost around Apr 5 and first fall frost around Oct 28. All planting dates above are calculated from these frost dates. Your specific location may vary — check with your local extension office for the most accurate dates.