White Egg Turnip is an heirloom variety that has been cultivated since at least 1828, when it was first sold in the Boston store of John B. Russell. Known for its smooth, oval shape and snowy white flesh, this turnip offers a tender, juicy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that sets it apart from other varieties. Expert gardener William Woys Weaver notes that White Egg Turnips have a higher water content, making them exceptionally juicy and mild enough to be eaten raw, especially when freshly harvested.
This versatile root vegetable can be enjoyed fresh, roasted, or even mashed like potatoes. Don’t overlook the nutritious and flavorful greens, which can be used in a variety of dishes. White Egg Turnip is a reliable producer, ideal for both spring and fall planting, and its mild flavor only intensifies in storage. Additionally, this turnip has a unique cultural history, inspiring the tradition of Jack O'Lanterns through the old Irish practice of placing lit embers inside hollowed-out turnips.
* SCROLL DOWN FOR DETAILED GROWING INFO *
All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
• Heirloom
• Organic
• Non-GMO
• Open Pollinated
• Untreated
• US Grown
• Growing instructions included
• Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
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• NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in-house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
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* DIRECTIONS *
Common Names: White Egg Turnip
Latin Name: *Brassica rapa* subsp. *rapa*
Type: Root Vegetable
Life Cycle: Annual
USDA Zones: 3 - 9
Stratification: Not required
Germination Ease: Easy
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Moisture: Prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil
Soil: Rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0
Height: 12-18 inches (including greens)
Spread: 6-8 inches
Color: White, smooth, egg-shaped roots with deep green leaves
Bloom Season: N/A (grown for roots and greens)
Companion Plants: Good companions include peas, beans, onions, and radishes. Turnips can help break up compacted soil, making it easier for other root crops to grow.
Potential Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets
Climate Adaptability: Adaptable to a range of climates within its USDA zones; prefers cooler weather for best flavor and texture
~ Sowing ~
When to Sow Outside: Sow seeds directly in the garden 2 to 4 weeks before the average last frost date for a spring crop, or in late summer for a fall crop.
When to Start Inside: Not recommended, as turnips grow best when directly sown.
Planting Depth: Sow seeds ¼ to ½ inch deep.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Turnips prefer evenly moist soil for optimal growth.
Light and Temperature: Turnips prefer cooler temperatures between 50-75°F (10-24°C) and can tolerate light frost.
Germination: Seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days.
~ Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors ~
Timing: If starting indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors when they have 2-3 true leaves and after the risk of frost has passed.
Location: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Spacing: Space plants 4-6 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart to allow for adequate growth and air circulation.
Transplanting: Gently transplant seedlings into the prepared soil, ensuring the root ball is covered and the plant is stable. Water well after planting.
~ Growing ~
Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and keep roots cool.
Fertilizing: Turnips benefit from a balanced fertilizer or compost worked into the soil before planting. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of root development.
Pest and Disease Management: Monitor for pests such as aphids and flea beetles. Use organic pest control methods such as insecticidal soap or diatomaceous earth if necessary. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Maintenance: Thin seedlings to the recommended spacing to prevent overcrowding and encourage healthy root development. Remove any yellowing leaves to keep the plant healthy.
~ Harvesting ~
When to Harvest: Harvest turnips when they reach 2-3 inches in diameter for the best flavor and texture. Turnip greens can be harvested when leaves are young and tender.
How to Harvest: Gently pull the roots from the soil, being careful not to damage them. Use a garden fork if necessary to loosen the soil around the roots.
Drying and Storing: Turnips can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in a cool, dark place for longer storage. Store the greens separately in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.
~ Seed Saving ~
Allow a few plants to flower and set seed in their second year if growing as a biennial. Once the seed pods are dry, collect them and store them in a cool, dry place for future planting.
~ Additional Information ~
Forage for Pollinators: N/A (Turnips are grown for their roots and greens, not flowers)
Origin: White Egg Turnip has been cultivated in the United States since the early 19th century and is known for its mild flavor and versatility.
Nomenclature: The name "turnip" is derived from the Old English word "turnepe," which combines "turn" (a round shape) and "nepe" (an old word for a type of root vegetable).
History: White Egg Turnip has a long history in American gardening, dating back to its introduction in 1828. It remains a popular choice for its tender, juicy roots and mild flavor.
Potential Toxicity: Non-toxic and safe for consumption by humans and pets.
Climate Adaptability: Thrives in cool weather; suitable for both spring and fall planting in most regions.
