Or how about tough turnips? If you plant turnips in the spring approximately 3 weeks before the last frost or 2 months before the first frost in the fall, you won't have turnips that will fight back when chewing them. Turnips are a cool weather vegetable that can withstand cold temperatures if mulched well. I suggest at least 2 - 3 inches of mulch. If you plant them too late in the spring and the temperatures exceed 75° F, be prepared for bitter turnip face. And, if you thought radishes get woody in hot temperatures, you can expect the same from turnips.

As always, selecting the right spot to plant your turnips is as important as getting the crop in on time. You should do a soil sample to determine the soils pH level. The range should be 5.5 - 6.8. If you are amending the soil, do not use manure as turnips simply do not like it. Bountiful crops come from rich, loose soils.

If you are intending to store turnips, don't wash off the soil and store in a cool dark place.