Growing Milan White Turnip from Seeds in the UK 

Milan White Turnip, with its creamy white, smooth skin and distinctively flat, globe-shaped roots, is a popular and productive variety known for its fine flavour and tender texture. This Italian heirloom turnip is well-suited to the UK climate, thriving in cooler temperatures and maturing in approximately 45 days from germination. Its cold resistance and high productivity make it an excellent choice for both spring and autumn harvests. Follow this detailed guide to successfully sow and grow Milan White Turnips in your garden. 

When and Where to Sow Milan White Turnip Seeds 

• Spring Sowing: Sow seeds directly outdoors as soon as the soil can be worked, typically from early spring (March) to late spring (May). This will provide an early crop before the warmer summer months.
• Autumn Sowing: For a second crop, sow seeds in late summer (August) for an autumn and early winter harvest. Turnips prefer cooler weather, making them ideal for late-season growing in the UK. 

Ideal Growing Conditions for Milan White Turnip 

• Soil Requirements: Turnips prefer light, well-drained soil with good fertility. Avoid planting in freshly manured soil, as this can lead to poor germination and root formation. The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0). Prepare the bed by adding compost or well-rotted manure the previous season to improve soil structure. 
• Sunlight: Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Full sun promotes faster growth, but turnips can also tolerate light shade, especially during hotter periods. 
• Temperature: The ideal temperature range for germination is between 15-24°C (59-75°F). Turnips thrive in cool weather and can tolerate light frosts, making them suitable for early and late sowing in the UK. 

How to Sow Milan White Turnip Seeds Outdoors 

1. Prepare the Seed Bed: Choose a well-prepared seed bed in your garden. Remove any weeds and rake the soil to a fine tilth. Avoid sowing in areas that have been recently manured. 
2. Sowing Depth and Spacing: Sow the seeds thinly at a depth of 6 mm (¼ inch). Space the rows 30-45 cm (12-18 inches) apart. For smaller spaces, you can reduce row spacing to 20-30 cm (8-12 inches). 
3. Watering: Water the seed bed gently after sowing to settle the soil. Keep the area consistently moist during the germination period, which typically takes 14-21 days. Be cautious not to overwater, as turnip seeds can rot in waterlogged soil. 
4. Thinning: When seedlings are 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) tall, thin them out to a final spacing of 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) apart. Thinned seedlings can be used in salads or cooked as tender greens. 

Caring for Milan White Turnip Plants 

• Watering: Turnips require consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, to prevent the roots from becoming tough and woody. Water regularly, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. 
• Feeding: Turnips generally do not require heavy feeding. However, if your soil is poor, you can apply a balanced, low-nitrogen fertiliser to support healthy root development. 
• Weeding: Keep the area around the turnips free of weeds, which can compete for nutrients and water. Hand weeding or shallow hoeing is recommended to avoid disturbing the shallow roots of the plants. 
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. 

Harvesting Milan White Turnips 

• Root Harvesting: Harvest turnips when they reach a diameter of 5-7 cm (2-3 inches) for the best flavour and texture. Larger roots may become woody and lose their tenderness. Use a garden fork to carefully lift the turnips from the soil. 
• Harvesting Turnip Greens: Turnip greens can be harvested when they are young and tender, typically around 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) in height. Pick a few leaves from each plant to allow continued growth. 
• Storing Turnips: After harvesting, remove the tops and store the roots in a cool, dark place. Turnips can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in a root cellar for longer storage. Greens can be stored in a plastic bag in the fridge for up to a week. 

Common Questions About Growing Milan White Turnips 

• Can Milan White Turnips be grown in containers? Yes, turnips can be grown in deep containers or raised beds. Choose a container at least 30 cm (12 inches) deep and use a well-draining potting mix. Ensure regular watering and feeding for best results. 

• Why are my turnips developing tough roots? Tough roots are usually a result of inconsistent watering or harvesting too late. Keep the soil consistently moist and harvest the roots when they are 5-7 cm in diameter to ensure tender, juicy turnips. 

• How do I prevent pests on my turnips? Turnips can be affected by flea beetles and root maggots. Use row covers to protect young seedlings and practice crop rotation to minimise pest problems. Companion planting with garlic or onions can also help deter pests. 

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of tender, flavourful Milan White Turnips in your UK garden. Whether grown for their creamy, delicious roots or nutritious greens, these turnips are a versatile addition to any vegetable patch or allotment. 

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