If you’re wondering when to plant turnip greens in Mississippi, you’re in the right place. Getting the timing right is the first step to a great harvest. Mississippi’s climate is perfect for growing these nutritious greens, but you need to know the specific windows for spring and fall planting. This guide will walk you through the ideal schedule and simple steps for success.
When To Plant Turnip Greens In Mississippi
Mississippi’s long growing season allows for two main planting periods. The key is to avoid the peak summer heat, which can make the greens taste bitter. Cool weather is what makes turnip greens sweet and tender.
Primary Planting Seasons
For a spring harvest, plant your seeds as soon as the soil can be worked. This is usually in late February to early March in southern Mississippi. In the northern parts of the state, aim for mid to late March. The goal is to get them growing before the heat arrives.
The fall season is actually the best and most popular time for planting. For a fantastic autumn harvest, sow seeds from late August through October. Planting in fall allows the greens to mature in cool weather, which greatly improves their flavor.
Using the USDA Hardiness Zones
Mississippi spans zones 7b to 9a. This affects your exact dates:
- Zone 7b (North MS): Spring plant mid-March; Fall plant early August to late September.
- Zone 8a & 8b (Central MS): Spring plant early March; Fall plant mid-August to mid-October.
- Zone 9a (Coastal MS): Spring plant late February; Fall plant late August to late October.
Soil Temperature and Frost
Turnip greens seeds germinate best in soil temperatures between 45°F and 85°F. They can handle a light frost, which actually makes them taste sweeter. A hard freeze (below 28°F) can damage them, so use a row cover if one is forcasted.
Choosing the Right Varieties for Mississippi
Selecting a variety that thrives in the South will give you better results. Some are bred specifically for heat tolerance or disease resistance.
Top Recommended Varieties
- Purple Top White Globe: A classic dual-purpose turnip grown for both greens and roots.
- Seven Top: Grown primarily for its lush, leafy greens, not a big root.
- Shogoin: Excellent for greens and produces a mild, white root.
- Southern Green: As the name implies, it’s a reliable performer in southern heat.
- Alltop: Another greens-focused variety known for its rapid regrowth after cutting.
Preparing Your Garden Bed
Good soil prep makes everything easier. Turnip greens prefer loose, fertile soil that drains well.
Soil Requirements
They grow best in a slightly acidic to neutral pH, between 6.0 and 7.0. You can get a simple soil test kit to check your garden’s pH. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost to improve texture and drainage.
Step-by-Step Bed Preparation
- Choose a spot that gets full sun (at least 6 hours).
- Clear the area of weeds and rocks.
- Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches with a garden fork or tiller.
- Mix in 2 to 3 inches of well-rotted compost or aged manure.
- Rake the bed smooth, breaking up any large clumps.
How to Plant Turnip Greens Seeds
Planting is straightforward. You sow the seeds directly into your prepared garden bed; they don’t transplant well.
- Create shallow rows about ½ inch deep. Space rows 12 to 18 inches apart.
- Sow the seeds thinly along the row. You can place them about an inch apart.
- Cover the seeds lightly with fine soil or compost and pat down gently.
- Water the area thoroughly with a gentle spray to avoid washing the seeds away.
- Keep the soil consistently moist until you see seedlings, usually in 4 to 7 days.
Once seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them to stand 4 to 6 inches apart. The thinned seedlings are edible and make a nice addition to a salad!
Caring for Your Growing Greens
A little regular care ensures a bountiful and continuous harvest.
Watering and Mulching
Turnip greens need about 1 inch of water per week. Water deeply at the base of the plants to encourage strong roots. Adding a 2-inch layer of mulch, like straw or pine needles, helps retain soil moisture and suppresses weeds. It also keeps the leaves cleaner by preventing soil splash.
Fertilizing for Growth
If your soil was well-amended, you may not need much extra fertilizer. A side-dressing of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer or compost tea about 3 weeks after planting can boost growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the season, as they can promote leafy growth at the expense of flavor.
Pest and Disease Management
Common pests in Mississippi include flea beetles, aphids, and cabbage loopers. Check the undersides of leaves regularly. For flea beetles, use floating row covers as a barrier. A strong spray of water can dislodge aphids. For worms, hand-picking is effective for small plantings.
Good air circulation and crop rotation help prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Avoid overhead watering to keep leaves dry.
Harvesting Your Turnip Greens
You can start harvesting in about 40 to 50 days, depending on the variety.
The “Cut-and-Come-Again” Method
This is the best way to get a prolonged yield. When leaves are 6 to 8 inches long, use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the outer, older leaves about an inch above the base. Leave the small, inner leaves in the center to continue growing. The plant will produce new leaves for another harvest.
Whole Plant Harvest
You can also pull the entire plant if you prefer. Do this when the leaves are at their peak size but before they become tough or bitter, especially as warmer weather approaches in the spring.
Storing and Using Your Harvest
For the best flavor, use your greens fresh. If you need to store them, place unwashed leaves in a plastic bag with a paper towel to absorb moisture. They will keep in the refrigerator crisper drawer for about a week.
To freeze turnip greens for later, wash them thoroughly, remove tough stems, and blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes. Then, plunge them into ice water, drain, and pack into freezer bags.
Common Questions About Growing Turnip Greens
Can I plant turnip greens in the summer in Mississippi?
It’s not recommended. The intense summer heat causes the plants to bolt (go to seed) quickly and makes the leaves taste strong and bitter. Stick to the spring and fall windows for the best results.
How often should I water my turnip greens?
Aim for consistent moisture, about 1 inch per week from rainfall or watering. Water more frequently during dry spells, as stressed plants become more bitter and tough.
What are good companion plants for turnip greens?
They grow well near peas, beans, and onions. Avoid planting them near other members of the cabbage family (like broccoli or kale) in the same spot year after year to reduce pest and disease issues.
Why are my turnip greens leaves full of small holes?
This is likely damage from flea beetles, a common pest. Using floating row covers right after planting is the best prevention method for these tiny insects.
Can I grow turnip greens in containers?
Absolutely. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches deep and wide. Use a quality potting mix and ensure the container has good drainage holes. You’ll need to water container plants more frequently than those in the ground.
Following these simple guidelines on timing and care will set you up for a succesful season. With two chances to plant each year, you can enjoy a steady supply of fresh, homegrown turnip greens straight from your Mississippi garden.