Turnip illustration

⚪ Growing Turnip in Zone 5a

Zone 5a has cold winters and a moderate growing season. Timing is key for Turnip in this zone. Last frost: Apr 28. First frost: Oct 8.

Planting Calendar

Outdoor
Harvest
Apr 7Oct 8

Season: Apr 28 – Oct 8 (163 days) · Succession: plant every 3 weeks (up to 5x)

Zone5a
Last FrostApr 28
First FrostOct 8
Season Length163 days
Days to Harvest45
SunFull Sun
Frost ToleranceModerate
Spacing9/sqft (4" apart)

When to Plant Turnip in Zone 5a

Sow Seeds Outdoors: Apr 7

Direct sow Turnip seeds outdoors around Apr 7. Soil temperature should be at least 40°F. Space at 9/sqft (4" apart).

Harvest: May 22

First harvest approximately May 22 (~45 days from planting). Continue harvesting until first frost (Oct 8).

Fall Planting: Aug 13

For a fall harvest, plant Turnip around Aug 13 (8 weeks before first frost).

Companion Planting

✅ Peas✅ Vetch
❌ Knapweed❌ Mustard Greens

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Turnip in Zone 5a?

Direct sow Turnip outdoors around Apr 7. Harvest around May 22.

What is the last frost date for Zone 5a?

The average last spring frost date for Zone 5a is Apr 28. The first fall frost averages Oct 8, giving a 163-day growing season.

Can I grow Turnip in Zone 5a?

Yes. Turnip needs 45 days to harvest. Zone 5a has a 163-day growing season, which is sufficient. You can plant up to 5 successions.

What is the best month to plant Turnip in Zone 5a?

The best time to plant Turnip in Zone 5a is around Apr 7, when soil temperatures are suitable and frost risk has passed.

What companion plants grow well with Turnip?

Good companion plants for Turnip include Peas, Vetch. Avoid planting Turnip near Knapweed, Mustard Greens.

How long does Turnip take to harvest?

Turnip takes approximately 45 days from planting to harvest. In Zone 5a, expect your first harvest around May 22.

Plan Your Turnip Garden

Track Turnip from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.

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