Turnips are a cool-season annual brassica commonly used in cover crop cocktails. They germinate quickly and are excellent weed suppressors. Turnips are great nutrient accumulators and break down quickly in the spring, enriching the soil for subsequent crops. They are also an excellent forage for livestock producers who want to graze their cover crops. Their rapid growth makes them ideal for short growing windows, and they provide excellent grazing value late in the season.Benefits Rapid Growth: Turnips germinate quickly, making them suitable for short growing windows. Weed Suppression: Effective at suppressing weeds due to their rapid growth and ground coverage. Nutrient Accumulation: Accumulate nutrients and break down quickly in the spring, enriching the soil. Grazing Value: Provide excellent grazing value late in the season, ideal for livestock producers. Cool Season Adaptation: Perform well in cool-season conditions, extending the growing season. Characteristics Type: Cool season annual brassica. C:N Ratio: 25:1, contributing to efficient nutrient cycling. Planting Instructions Seeding Rate: Seed at 5-8 lbs/acre when planted alone, and 2-4 lbs/acre when used in mixes. Seeding Depth: Plant seeds at a depth of 1/4-1/2 inch. Planting Range: Late summer to early fall for optimal establishment. Turnips from Elk Mound Seed are an excellent choice for cover crops and grazing, offering rapid growth, effective weed suppression, and valuable nutrient accumulation. Their ability to break down quickly in the spring enriches the soil for future crops, making them a versatile and beneficial addition to any cover crop program.
