Turnips are seeded directly into the garden; they do not transplant well. Sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2 of an inch deep, 1 inch apart, in rows 12 to 18 inches apart. You can also scatter turnip seed and cover the seeds with no more than 1/2 an inch of soil. Water well and consistently.

Do turnips grow underground?

Turnips (Brassica rapa) are vegetables grown in cool conditions. Most turnip plants have roundish or conical lower stems and grow partly underground.

How long does it take for a turnip plant to grow?

Turnips are ready to harvest 40 to 55 days after planting. If harvesting the leaves, they are ready when they reach 4-6 inches in height. If only harvesting the leaves, cut them from the plant when they reach the desired size, leaving 1 inch of leaves above the crown of the plant. More leaves will grow in their place.