Purple Top Turnip (Brassica rapa) is a cool-season root vegetable that is widely grown for its edible bulbs and leafy greens. It's a preferred crop for wildlife food plots due to its high palatability and nutritious foliage and tubers. Turnips are especially favored by deer, wild turkeys, and rabbits. These plants grow quickly, providing an excellent fall food source and cover for wildlife. They are also great for soil health, adding organic matter and improving soil structure.

Benefits for Wildlife

✔ Highly attractive to deer and other wildlife – Leaves and roots are nutritious and favored by many species.
✔ Edible root and foliage – The roots are rich in energy and nutrients, while the leaves are excellent for grazing.
✔ Fast-growing – Provides a food source within a few months, making it ideal for late-season wildlife forage.
✔ Effective cover for wildlife – The leafy growth provides shelter and nesting opportunities for various species.

Planting Guidelines for Purple Top Turnip

• Planting Times:

  • Spring (early April to May) for early season growth or late summer (late July to early August) for fall forage. Plant at least 60–90 days before the first frost for optimal root development.

• Seeding Depth:

  • 1/4 to 1/2 inches deep – Shallow planting ensures proper germination, as seeds are small.

• Seeding Rates:

  • Drilled: 3–4 lbs per acre for even seed distribution and consistent growth.
  • Broadcast: 5–6 lbs per acre; lightly incorporate the seeds into the soil for good seed-to-soil contact.

• Days to Maturity:

  • 60–90 days from planting to maturity, depending on weather and soil conditions.
  • Roots are typically ready for harvest or wildlife feeding within 2 to 3 months.

• Height at Maturity:

  • 12–18 inches – The plant's height varies based on growing conditions, with leafy growth extending above the root.

• Drought Tolerance:

  • Moderate – Purple top turnip tolerates dry conditions but requires adequate moisture during the growing season for optimal root development.

• Saturated Soil Tolerance:

  • Low – Prefers well-drained soils and does not tolerate excessive waterlogging or heavy rainfall for extended periods.

• Shade Tolerance:

  • Low – Requires full sun for healthy growth and robust root development.

Fertilization Guidelines for Purple Top Turnip

• Soil pH:

  • Prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH of 6.0–7.0 for optimal growth and nutrient uptake.

• Nitrogen (N):

  • Apply 30–50 lbs per acre of nitrogen to encourage leafy growth. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can lead to too much foliage and poor root development.

• Phosphorus (P) & Potassium (K):

  • Apply 40–60 lbs of phosphorus and 50–80 lbs of potassium per acre for strong root development.
  • Soil testing is recommended to determine exact nutrient needs.

Fertilization Timing:

• Apply fertilizers at planting to ensure that nutrients are available during the establishment phase.

Herbicide Use for Purple Top Turnip

• Weed Control:

  • Weeds can reduce turnip yields, so weed control is important in the early stages of growth.

• Pre-emergence Herbicides:

  • Pendimethalin and Trifluralin are common herbicides for controlling weeds before emergence but should be used carefully to avoid harming turnips.

• Post-emergence Herbicides:

  • Broadleaf herbicides should be used cautiously as they may damage turnips, especially if applied when the plants are still young.

   

Mechanical Weed Control:

• Cultivation or mowing is also an effective method to control weeds in turnip plots without using herbicides.