Turnip Red Seeds (Laal Shaljam)

Red turnips, also known as red globe turnips or red turnip beets, are a variety of turnip with vibrant red skin and white flesh. Here’s a guide on how to grow them:

1. Planting Time: Red turnips are cool-season vegetables. Plant seeds in early spring or late summer/early fall for a fall harvest. They thrive in cooler temperatures.
2. Soil: Red turnips prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter like compost to enhance fertility and drainage.
3. Seed Planting: Sow red turnip seeds directly into the garden bed about 1/4 inch deep and spaced around 1 inch apart. Rows should be spaced 12 to 18 inches apart.
4. Thinning: Once the seedlings emerge and develop a few sets of true leaves, thin them to a final spacing of 4 to 6 inches apart to allow enough room for bulb development.
5. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, adjusting based on rainfall and temperature.
6. Sunlight: Red turnips prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade, especially in warmer climates.
7. Fertilization: A balanced fertilizer can be incorporated into the soil before planting. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can encourage leafy growth over bulb formation.
8. Harvesting: Red turnips are ready for harvest in about 45 to 60 days. Harvest them when the roots reach about 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Use a garden fork to gently lift them from the soil. Remove the tops (leaves) before storing.
9. Uses: Red turnips can be eaten raw or cooked. They’re often used in salads, stir-fries, roasted dishes, or pickled. The greens are also edible and can be cooked similarly to other leafy greens like spinach or kale.

Red turnips are nutritious and flavorful vegetables that can add color and taste to various dishes. With proper care and growing conditions, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of these vibrant root vegetables from your garden.