Purple Top Milan Turnip (Brassica rapa subsp. rapa) is a fast-growing, heritage variety of turnip known for its distinctive flat, globe-shaped roots with vibrant purple tops and creamy white flesh. Belonging to the Brassicaceae family, this variety is appreciated for its mild, sweet flavor and tender texture. Purple Top Milan Turnip is an excellent choice for gardeners due to its quick maturation, versatility in cooking, and adaptability to various growing conditions.
The Purple Top Milan Turnip originated in Europe and has been cultivated for centuries as a staple crop. Its popularity grew in the 19th century due to its adaptability and rapid growth, making it a reliable food source. Named after Milan, Italy, this variety became widely recognized for its delicate flavor and attractive appearance, making it a favorite among home gardeners and market growers.
The Purple Top Milan Turnip produces flat, globe-shaped roots with smooth, pale white skin and a vibrant purple crown. The roots typically measure 7-10 cm (3-4 inches) in diameter and have a fine-grained, tender texture. The plant also produces lush, dark green leaves that are smooth and slightly hairy, making them suitable for culinary use as well. This variety is an early-maturing crop, ready for harvest in as little as 30-50 days after sowing.
Seeds: Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. Plant seeds 1 cm (1/2 inch) deep and 5–10 cm (2–4 inches) apart in rows spaced 30 cm (12 inches) apart. Thin seedlings to 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) apart once they emerge.
Succession Planting: For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2–3 weeks.
Light: Plant in full sun for optimal growth, although partial shade is tolerated.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer or side-dress with compost once the plants are established, as turnips grow quickly and benefit from additional nutrients.
Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and water, but avoid disturbing the shallow roots.
Roots: Harvest roots when they are 5–10 cm (2–4 inches) in diameter, about 45–60 days after sowing. Smaller roots are sweeter and more tender. Pull them gently from the soil.
Greens: Harvest young greens at any stage for salads or cooked dishes, ensuring you leave enough leaves to allow the roots to continue developing.
Purple Top Milan Turnip is valued for its mild, sweet flavor and tender texture, making it versatile in the kitchen. The roots can be eaten raw, sliced thinly into salads, or pickled for a tangy snack. When cooked, the turnips become even sweeter and can be roasted, mashed, boiled, or added to soups and stews. The greens are also edible and highly nutritious, often sautéed, steamed, or added to dishes for a peppery flavor.
This variety is particularly well-suited for fresh market sales or as a culinary staple due to its appealing appearance, quick growth, and versatility in both the roots and greens.
