Turnip

Purple Top White Globe Turnip - 🌱 A Classic Heirloom Variety – This beloved turnip is prized for its crisp, sweet roots and nutritious greens, making it a staple in home gardens and markets for generations. Yields abundant crops in spring and fall plantings. Hardy and reliable, even for beginner gardeners! Summary The Purple Top White Globe is an open-pollinated heirloom turnip renowned for its large, globe-shaped roots (3-5 inches in diameter) that are snowy white with a distinctive lavender-purple crown crowning the top. The flesh is tender, mild, and slightly sweet when harvested young, becoming more pungent as it matures. Both roots and tops are edible – the greens are tender and flavorful, perfect for southern-style cooking. History Dating back to the mid-19th century, the Purple Top White Globe Turnip traces its roots to European varieties brought to North America by early settlers. It gained prominence in the United States around the 1850s-1880s, particularly in the Southern states, where it became a dietary mainstay for both people and livestock. Documented Introduction: First listed in American seed catalogs by the 1880s (e.g., by J.H. Gregory & Son). Likely selected from older white turnip strains for its striking purple top and globe shape. Cultural Significance: A Southern heirloom, it symbolized self-sufficiency during the Civil War era and Great Depression. Preserved by seed savers, it's now upheld by organizations like Seed Savers Exchange and Firefly Farm & Mercantile Modern Legacy: Remains one of the most popular turnip varieties today, unchanged for over 150 years. Its vigor and flavor have made it a favorite for organic and heritage gardens worldwide. Fun Fact: Thomas Jefferson grew similar turnips at Monticello, highlighting their long-standing role in American agriculture! Key Growing Highlights: Days to Maturity: 55-60 days for roots; greens ready in 30-40 days. Planting: Direct sow seeds ½ inch deep, 1-2 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart. Thrives in cool weather (ideal soil temp: 50-75°F). Soil & Care: Prefers loose, well-drained, fertile soil with pH 6.0-7.0. Full sun; consistent moisture prevents woody roots. Thin seedlings for best size. Harvest: Pull roots when 2-4 inches across for tenderness. Succession plant every 2-3 weeks for continuous supply. Pests/Diseases: Watch for flea beetles and root maggots; rotate crops and use row covers. Uses: Roots for roasting, mashing, soups, or fresh salads. Greens sautéed, in stir-fries, or as a nutritious green like kale (high in vitamins A, C, K).    

Southern Exposure Seed Exchange -45 days. Pre-1880, Popular Southern variety often grown for winter green. Used for greens, not the roots, which are woody. Leaves grow 18-22 in. tall, but should be harvested when young and tender. 3g or ~1300 Seeds Included in Slow Food USA’s Ark of Taste Instructions - Sow outdoors in early spring for spring and early summer or late summer for fall and winter harvests.  Sow seeds 1" apart  10-12" apart  Thin: 2" apart   Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability