When To Plant Turnip Greens In Tennessee

If you’re wondering when to plant turnip greens in Tennessee, you’ve come to the right place. Getting the timing right is the most important step for a succesful harvest, and Tennessee’s unique climate offers two perfect planting windows each year.

This guide will walk you through the optimal Tennessee planting times, from spring to fall. We’ll cover everything from soil prep to harvesting, ensuring you get the most from your garden.

Turnip greens are a cool-season crop, thriving in the milder temperatures of spring and fall. They can tolerate a light frost, which actually improves their flavor, but they struggle in the heat of a Tennessee summer. For this reason, timing your planting is crucial.

Spring Planting Window

For a spring harvest, you should plant your turnip greens as early as the soil can be worked. This is typically 4 to 6 weeks before your last expected spring frost date.

In Middle Tennessee (Nashville area), aim for late February to mid-March.
In East Tennessee (Knoxville area), target mid to late March.
In West Tennessee (Memphis area), you can often start in late February.

Planting too late in spring risks the greens bolting (going to seed) once the summer heat arrives, which makes them taste bitter.

Fall Planting Window

The fall planting season is often the best and most productive for turnip greens. The cooling temperatures create ideal growing conditions.

You should plant seeds in late summer to early fall, about 6 to 8 weeks before your first expected fall frost.

In Middle Tennessee, plant from mid-August to late September.
In East Tennessee, aim for early August to mid-September.
In West Tennessee, target late August to early October.

Fall-planted greens benefit from fewer pests and often yeild sweeter, more tender leaves after a light frost.

Using the Frost Date as Your Guide

Your local average frost dates are your best tool. You can find these through your county extension office. Remember, these are averages, so always keep an eye on the forcast.

Choosing the Right Variety for Tennessee

Not all turnip greens are created equal. Some varieties are better suited to Tennessee’s specific conditions. Here are a few reliable choices:

Seven Top: This is a classic, grown primarily for its lush greens rather than a large root. It’s very hardy and excellent for fall planting.
Purple Top White Globe: A dual-purpose variety that produces good greens and a tasty turnip root. It’s adaptable and widely available.
Shogoin: Another great choice for greens, known for its fast growth and tender leaves.
Southern Green: As the name implies, this variety is a favorite in the South and handles heat better than some others.

Preparing Your Garden Soil

Turnip greens prefer loose, well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. They grow best in a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

Step-by-Step Soil Prep

Choose a spot that gets full sun (at least 6 hours) for the best growth, though they can tolerate partial shade.
Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches using a garden fork or tiller.
Mix in 2 to 4 inches of well-rotted compost or aged manure. This improves drainage and provides nutrients.
You can do a simple soil test through the UT Extension service to check pH and nutrient levels. It’s a valuable resourse.
Rake the bed smooth, removing any large clumps or stones.

How to Plant Turnip Greens Seeds

Turnip greens are grown directly from seed sown in the garden. They don’t transplant well, so it’s best to avoid starting them indoors.

Create shallow rows about ½ inch deep. Space rows 12 to 18 inches apart.
Sow the seeds thinly along the row, roughly 1 inch apart. Don’t worry about perfect spacing yet.
Cover the seeds lightly with fine soil and pat down gently.
Water the area thoroughly using a gentle spray to avoid washing the seeds away. Keep the soil consistently moist until seeds sprout, which usually takes 4 to 7 days.
Once seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them to stand 4 to 6 inches apart. You can eat the thinned seedlings as microgreens!

Caring for Your Growing Greens

Proper care after planting ensures a healthy, continuous harvest.

Watering Needs

Turnip greens need about 1 inch of water per week. Water deeply at the base of the plants to encourage strong roots. Consistent moisture is key, especially during dry spells in the fall. Inconsistent watering can lead to tough leaves.

Fertilizing for Success

If your soil was prepared with compost, you may not need much extra fertilizer. A light side-dressing of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer or more compost about 3 weeks after planting can give them a boost. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote to much leaf growth at the expense of flavor.

Managing Weeds and Pests

Keep the area weeded, as weeds compete for water and nutrients. A layer of mulch (like straw or shredded leaves) helps suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.

Common pests in Tennessee include:

Flea Beetles: These create tiny holes in leaves. Use row covers immediately after planting as a barrier.
Aphids: A strong spray of water from the hose can dislodge them. Insecticidal soap is also effective.
Cabbage Loopers: Hand-pick these green caterpillars if you see them. Row covers also prevent the moths from laying eggs.

Practicing crop rotation (not planting turnips or other brassicas in the same spot year after year) helps prevent pest and disease buildup.

Harvesting Your Tennessee Turnip Greens

You can start harvesting leaves when they are young and tender, usually about 4 to 6 weeks after planting.

“Cut-and-Come-Again” Method: This is the most common approach. Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the outer, older leaves about 2 inches above the soil line. The plant will continue to produce new growth from the center.
Whole Plant Harvest: You can also pull the entire plant when it’s mature, especially if you want to use the turnip root as well.

Harvest in the morning when leaves are crisp and full of moisture. For the sweetest flavor, try harvesting after a light frost has occured in the fall.

Storing and Using Your Harvest

Fresh turnip greens are best used right away, but they can be stored for several days. Rinse them in cool water, shake off excess moisture, and wrap them loosely in a paper towel. Place them in a plastic bag in your refrigerator’s crisper drawer.

For longer storage, you can blanch and freeze them. They’re perfect for adding to soups, stews, or simply sautéed with a bit of garlic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you plant turnip greens in the summer in Tennessee?

It’s not recommended. Summer heat causes the plants to bolt quickly, resulting in bitter, tough leaves. Stick to the early spring and fall windows.

How late can you plant turnip greens in Tennessee?

For a fall crop, you can plant up until about 6 weeks before the first hard freeze. This often means a final planting in very early October for many areas, providing a late autumn harvest.

Do turnip greens come back every year?

No, turnip greens are an annual crop. They complete their life cycle in one growing season. However, they often will self-seed if you let some plants flower and go to seed.

What is the best fertilizer for turnip greens?

A balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer or compost tea works well. The most important thing is to have rich soil from the start with plenty of compost mixed in.

Can I grow turnip greens in containers?

Absolutely. Choose a pot at least 12 inches deep and wide. Ensure it has good drainage holes and use a quality potting mix. Water container plants more frequently, as they dry out faster.

By following these simple guidelines for when to plant turnip greens in Tennessee, you’ll be well on your way to a bountiful harvest. Remember, the secret is in the timing—leverage those cool spring and autumn days. With a little preparation and care, you can enjoy this nutritious Southern staple straight from your own garden for months on end.