RECOMMENDED USDA GROWING ZONES: 2–11
1. Choose the right location
Choose a location with full sun to partial shade and fertile, well-drained soil. Seven Top is a cool-season turnip grown primarily for its leafy tops rather than for an enlarged root.
Full sun encourages vigorous growth during cool weather, while some afternoon shade can help the leaves remain productive longer as temperatures begin to rise.
2. Prepare the soil
Loosen the upper several inches of soil and remove weeds, stones, and debris. Incorporating compost or other well-decomposed organic matter can help provide the fertile, moisture-retentive soil needed for rapid leafy growth.
Unlike turnips grown primarily for their roots, Seven Top does not require especially deep, loose soil for root development. Consistent fertility and moisture are more important for producing a generous crop of greens.
3. Sow the seeds
Seven Top performs best during cool weather. Direct sow outdoors in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. For a fall crop, sow again in late summer or early fall, allowing plants enough time to establish before severe freezing weather.
Plant seeds approximately 1/4–1/2 inch deep. Sow thinly in rows, then thin seedlings to approximately 2–4 inches apart for greens. Rows can be spaced approximately 12–18 inches apart.
For a longer harvest, make additional small sowings every 2–3 weeks while temperatures remain favorable.
4. Water and maintain the plants
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, particularly while seeds are germinating and young plants are becoming established. Irregular watering and hot, dry conditions can result in tougher or more strongly flavored leaves.
Keep the planting area reasonably free of weeds so young turnips do not have to compete for moisture and nutrients. A light layer of mulch can help conserve soil moisture once the seedlings are established.
Seven Top grows quickly in cool conditions and generally requires little complicated maintenance.
5. Harvest the greens
Young leaves can be harvested once they are large enough to use, with a more substantial crop typically developing in approximately 30–45 days.
For especially tender greens, harvest younger leaves. Larger mature leaves can also be harvested and are commonly cooked.
You can remove individual outer leaves while leaving the center of the plant intact to continue producing, or harvest entire plants when they reach the size you prefer. Harvesting during cool weather generally provides the best leaf quality.
Seven Top is grown for its abundant foliage and does not develop the large, fleshy storage root associated with conventional turnip varieties. A small root may form, but the leafy tops are the intended crop.
Growth slows as temperatures become hot, and plants may eventually bolt and produce flowers. For the best-quality greens, plan your main harvests for spring and fall rather than the hottest part of summer.
Growing Seven Top Turnip Greens in containers:
Seven Top is well suited to containers because a large turnip root does not need to develop. Choose a container with drainage holes and fill it with a fertile, well-drained potting mix.
Sow seeds about 1/4–1/2 inch deep and thin seedlings to provide room for healthy leaf development. Place the container in full sun or partial shade and check moisture regularly, as containers can dry more quickly than garden soil.
