Overview
Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger is a member of the Brassicaceae family, a group that also includes other popular vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. This plant is commonly referred to as the Turnip, and it is widely known for its white, edible, bulbous root.
Origin
The Turnip is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region. Historically, it has been cultivated as a food crop in Europe and Asia, and it was introduced to North America during the 17th century.
Common Names
The Turnip has various common names in different parts of the world. In North America, it is generally called the Turnip, but it is also referred to as the Swede or Rutabaga in different regions. In the United Kingdom, it is commonly called the Swede, and in Australia, it is known as the Swede or Swedish Turnip.
General Appearance
The Turnip plant is an annual or biennial herb that can grow up to 2 feet tall. Its leaves are deeply lobed and have a blue-green color. The plant produces small, four-petaled, yellow flowers that are clustered at the top of a long stem. The Turnip's root is spherical in shape, with a white or yellowish color. The root can vary in size, with some Turnips growing as small as a golf ball, while others can reach the size of a grapefruit.
Uses
Turnips are mainly used as a food crop and are consumed in various forms, including boiled, roasted, mashed, or pickled. The root is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and potassium. Additionally, Turnip greens are also edible and can be used in salads or cooked as a side dish. Recently, research has shown that certain compounds found in Turnips may have potential health benefits, such as reducing the risk of cancer and improving heart health.
Light Requirements
Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger grows best in full sunlight. Without enough light, the plants may become spindly and weak. They require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. However, they can tolerate partial shade for a few hours per day, especially during the hottest periods.
Temperature Requirements
Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger grow best at moderate temperatures. They prefer temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This plant is relatively cold-tolerant and can survive in temperatures as low as 5°C. However, exposure to frost can damage its leaves and kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger prefers well-draining, loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH for this plant ranges from 6.0 to 6.8. Sufficient drainage is critical, and waterlogged soil can lead to root rot and other diseases. This plant thrives in soil that has been amended with compost or other organic matter.
Cultivation Methods
Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger, commonly known as turnip, grows well in slightly acidic, well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plants prefer a sunny location but can tolerate partial shade. They can be sown directly in the soil, or started indoors and transplanted after 4 to 6 weeks. Turnips require a spacing of 4 to 6 inches between each plant and should be planted in rows 12 to 18 inches apart.
Watering Needs
Turnips require regular watering, especially during their initial growth phase. The plants need 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall. Frequent, light watering is best, as turnips do not tolerate drought or waterlogged soil.
Fertilization
Turnips benefit from a balanced fertilizer application during their growth period. A nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (NPK) ratio of 5-10-10 or 10-10-10 is recommended. Fertilizer should be applied at a rate of 1 to 2 pounds per 100 square feet of planting area. It is best to apply the fertilizer once or twice during the growing season, depending on the soil quality and plant growth.
Pruning
Turnips do not require pruning, but thinning can be beneficial for the development of healthy roots. Once the plants have grown about 2 to 3 inches tall, thin them to a spacing of 4 to 6 inches between each plant. This will allow the roots to grow to a good size. Additionally, removing any diseased or damaged leaves can help prevent the spread of disease and increase the overall health of the plant.
Propagation of Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger
Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger, also known as turnip, is a member of the Brassicaceae family. It is an edible root vegetable that is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. The propagation of turnip can be done through different methods, as described below:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used to propagate turnip. To start with, seeds of the desired variety are sown in a well-prepared seedbed. The seedbed should be kept moist, and the seeds will germinate within 5-7 days. After germination, thinning is essential to ensure that there is enough space between the plants for healthy growth.
Transplanting
Transplanting is another way to propagate turnip. It involves starting the seed indoors and then moving the plants outside when they are large enough and the weather is favorable. Transplanting is a good option if there is limited space for a seedbed. It also allows for earlier harvests since the plants have had a head start.
Root cuttings
Turnip can also be propagated by root cuttings. This method involves taking a section of the taproot from an established plant and replanting it. The cuttings should be about 3-4 inches long and should contain one or two buds. The cuttings should be planted in well-prepared soil in a sunny location.
Conclusion
Propagation of Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger can be done through different methods, including seed propagation, transplanting, and root cuttings. Choosing the right propagation method depends on the available resources, space, and time. Nevertheless, with proper care and attention, turnip can be successfully propagated to provide a bountiful harvest of nutritious roots.
Disease Management for Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger
Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger is susceptible to a range of diseases, including fungal, bacterial, and viral infections. The following are the most common diseases that might affect the plant:
Clubroot
Clubroot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger. The infected plants show stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and wilting. To manage the disease, crop rotation is necessary, and planting resistant varieties is also recommended. Additionally, the soil pH can be increased to reduce the risk of infection.
Black rot
Black rot is a bacterial disease characterized by V-shaped yellow lesions on the leaves of Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger. The infected plants are stunted and may die prematurely. The disease can be controlled by removing and destroying infected plants and crop rotation.
Downy mildew
Downy mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger. The infected plants show yellowing of leaves and the appearance of grey mold on the underside of the leaves. To manage the disease, the use of fungicides and crop rotation is recommended.
Pest Management for Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger
Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger is also susceptible to pest attacks, the following are the most common pests that might affect the plant:
Diamondback moth
The diamondback moth is an insect that causes significant damage to Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger. The larvae feed on the leaves of the plants, causing small holes to appear. To manage the pest, the use of insecticides and the introduction of natural predators such as parasitic wasps is necessary.
Cabbage aphids
Cabbage aphids are sap-sucking insects that feed on Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger. The infected plants show stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and the appearance of sticky honeydew on the leaves. The pest can be managed through the use of insecticides and the introduction of natural predators such as ladybirds.
Cabbage maggot
The cabbage maggot is a fly larva that feeds on the roots of Brassica rapa L. ssp. rapifera Metzger, causing wilting of the plants. The pest can be managed through the use of insecticides, the application of nematodes, and crop rotation.
