When to Plant Turnip in Wisconsin (2026 Guide)
Turnips are a fantastic addition to any Wisconsin garden, providing both flavorful roots and nutritious greens. With a frost-free growing season of approximately 149 days in Zone 5b and 177 days in Zone 6a, understanding the right times to plant will help you maximize your harvest. For instance, your last spring frost in the 6a zone typically occurs around April 25, while the 5b zone sees its last frost by May 6.
In Wisconsin, turnips thrive in cooler temperatures, making them ideal for planting in both early spring and the latter part of summer. They are particularly well-suited for succession planting since they mature in just 30 to 60 days, allowing you to fill in gaps in your garden after other crops have been harvested. Additionally, as the weather cools, the flavor of turnips improves, making the fall a particularly rewarding time for growers.
When planning your gardening schedule in Wisconsin, it's crucial to know your hardiness zone. The median first fall frost date for Zone 5b is around October 2, giving you ample time to harvest your turnips before the cold settles in. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy bountiful harvests of this underrated vegetable.
Planting Schedule by USDA Zone in Wisconsin
| Zone | Indoor start | Transplant out | Direct sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 6a | Not recommended — direct sow only. | Not recommended — direct sow only. | Start March 15 – April 10, ~2 weeks after April 25. | Harvest from June 15 – July 30, then as needed into October. |
| Zone 5b | Not recommended — direct sow only. | Not recommended — direct sow only. | Start April 15 – May 6, ~1 week after May 6. | Harvest from June 15 – August 15, with potential for fall re-sowing in late August. |
| Zone 5a | Not recommended — direct sow only. | Not recommended — direct sow only. | Start April 15 – May 19, ~1 week after May 19. | Harvest from June 15 – August 1, and possibly mid-October for late fall crops. |
Turnip Planting Windows in Wisconsin
- Indoor start: Starting turnips indoors is not recommended; direct sowing is the only method for optimal growth.
- Transplant outdoors: Transplanting turnips outdoors is not recommended either; they should be directly sown at the appropriate times.
- Harvest: For a successful harvest, expect to gather turnips between June 15 and October 15, capitalizing on their sweeter flavors post-frost.
Common Mistakes Growing Turnip in Wisconsin
- Many Wisconsin gardeners mistakenly wait too long to plant turnips, missing the cool weather window that enhances their flavor. It's best to get seeds in the ground by the end of April for a successful spring crop.
- Ignoring proper spacing when planting turnips is a common issue. Crowded plants lead to poor root development, resulting in smaller, elongated roots. Thin seedlings to 4 to 6 inches to ensure good growth.
- Overlooking the impact of frost is a mistake that can be detrimental in Wisconsin, especially for fall crops. The last frost in early May means gardeners must be diligent in harvesting all roots before the temperature drops in October.
- Some gardeners in Wisconsin invest in starting turnips indoors, thinking it will give them a head start. However, being a taproot crop, turnips do best when directly sown into the garden bed.
- Falling for the notion that turnips can't be planted in the late summer months can prevent Wisconsin gardeners from maximizing their growing season. A late summer sowing can lead to a rewarding fall harvest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I'm in a cold pocket of Wisconsin?
If you live in a cooler area of Wisconsin, adjust your planting dates to account for the later last frost. Ensure you monitor soil temperatures as well for the best germination success in your garden.
Can I still plant turnip in May?
Yes, if you're in Zone 5b or warmer, you can still plant turnips in early May. Be sure to sow them directly and choose a variety suited for shorter growing seasons.
How do I know when to harvest my turnip?
Harvest your turnip when the roots reach about 2 to 3 inches in diameter for optimal taste and texture. This usually falls between June 15 and August 15, but they can also be harvested in the fall.
Are turnips frost-tolerant?
Absolutely! Turnips can withstand frost, and in fact, they become sweeter after exposure to colder temperatures. Leaving them in the ground can enhance their flavor well into the fall.
What should I do with the turnip greens?
Turnip greens are a nutritious and delicious addition to your meals. You can harvest them as soon as the plants have outer leaves, using them fresh in salads or cooked like mustard greens.
Keep Learning
City guides in Wisconsin
Other crops in Wisconsin
Typical fall sowing window for Turnip in Wisconsin: August 4 – August 25.