Tokyo Cross Turnip

Description

Tokyo Cross turnips are a popular variety of turnip known for their mild flavor, tender texture, and
rapid growth. Here’s a description:

1. **Size and Shape:** Tokyo Cross turnips typically have a round or slightly flattened shape, resembling a globe. They are generally small to medium in size, with roots ranging from 2 to 4 inches in diameter.

2. **Color:** The skin of Tokyo Cross turnips is smooth and creamy white, while the flesh is crisp and white. The roots have a clean, uniform appearance, with no blemishes or discoloration.

3. **Texture:** Tokyo Cross turnips are prized for their tender, juicy texture. The flesh is crisp and succulent, with a satisfying crunch that makes them enjoyable to eat raw or cooked.

4. **Flavor:** These turnips have a mild, sweet flavor with a subtle hint of earthiness. Unlike some other turnip varieties that can have a slightly bitter or peppery taste, Tokyo Cross turnips are known for their delicate flavor profile, making them versatile for use in a variety of culinary applications.

5. **Growing Habit:** Tokyo Cross turnips are relatively quick-growing and can be harvested in as little as 35-40 days from seeding. They are typically grown as a cool-season crop, thriving in the spring and fall when temperatures are mild.

6. **Versatility:** Tokyo Cross turnips are versatile in the kitchen and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They can be eaten raw as a crunchy, refreshing snack or sliced thinly and added to salads for a sweet, crisp texture. They can also be lightly sautéed, roasted, or pickled to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor.

7. **Nutritional Benefits:** Like all turnips, Tokyo Cross turnips are low in calories and rich in essential nutrients such as vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. They make a nutritious addition to a healthy diet and can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes.

Overall, Tokyo Cross turnips are prized for their mild flavor, tender texture, and versatility in the kitchen, making them a favorite among chefs, gardeners, and home cooks alike.

Planting instructions:

To plant Tokyo Cross turnips, follow these planting instructions:

1. **Timing:** Plant Tokyo Cross turnips in early spring for a spring harvest or in late summer for a fall harvest. Turnips prefer cool weather and can tolerate light frost, so avoid planting them in the heat of summer.

2. **Location:** Select a sunny or partially shaded spot in your garden with well-draining soil. Tokyo Cross turnips prefer loose, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.

3. **Soil Preparation:** Work the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches, breaking up any clumps and removing rocks or debris. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve soil fertility and structure.

4. **Planting Depth and Spacing:** Sow Tokyo Cross turnip seeds directly into the prepared soil at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Space the seeds 1-2 inches apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. Thin the seedlings to 4-6 inches apart once they have germinated to allow room for the roots to develop.

5. **Watering:** Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination and
growth stages. Water the turnips deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions and soil moisture levels. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

6. **Fertilization:** Turnips are moderate feeders and benefit from a balanced fertilizer application before planting. You can also side-dress the plants with compost or a balanced fertilizer once they have established.

7. **Mulching:** Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, around the base of the turnip plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

8. **Thinning:** Once the turnip seedlings have emerged and developed their first set of true leaves, thin them to the recommended spacing of 4-6 inches apart. Use scissors or garden shears to carefully remove the excess seedlings, leaving the strongest ones to grow.

9. **Pest and Disease Management:** Keep an eye out for common pests such as flea beetles, aphids, and root maggots, and take appropriate measures to control them if necessary. Rotate crops annually to minimize disease problems.

10. **Harvesting:** Tokyo Cross turnips are ready to harvest when the roots reach a diameter of 2-4 inches, usually about 35-40 days after planting. Use a garden fork or trowel to carefully loosen the soil around the roots and lift them out of the ground. Trim off the tops and store the turnips in a cool, dark place for up to several weeks.

By following these planting instructions, you can successfully grow Tokyo Cross turnips and enjoy their mild flavor and tender texture in your garden.