WHITE TURNIP – सफेद शलगम (2.5 Gm)

🤍 How to Grow Organic & Desi White Turnip (Safed Shalgam)

☀️ 1. Climate & Season

White turnip loves cool weather (10–25°C).

Sowing Time in India:

North India: October–November

South India / Hills: August–January

Grows fast — ready in 40–60 days depending on variety.

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🌾 2. Soil Preparation (Organic Way)

Prefers loamy, loose, and well-drained soil.

Soil pH: 6.0–7.5

Before sowing, mix:

Cow dung manure or compost (2–3 kg per sq.m.)

A handful of neem cake powder (natural pest repellent)

Avoid heavy clay or freshly manured soil — it makes roots rough and deformed.

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🌱 3. Methods of Growing (All Possible Ways)

(a) Furrow / Line Method

Make furrows 12 inches apart.

Sow seeds 1 cm deep and 4–6 cm apart.

Cover lightly with fine soil and water gently.

Ideal for open-field or kitchen garden.

(b) Raised Bed Method

Raised beds (2-3 ft wide) ensure good drainage and aeration.

Mix compost well into soil.

Great for continuous growth and smooth white roots.

(c) Pot / Container Method

Use 8–10 inch deep pots or grow bags.

Sow 5–6 seeds per pot, thin to 2–3 strong plants later.

Keep in full sunlight and ensure regular moisture.

(d) Broadcasting Method

Scatter seeds evenly over soft soil.

Cover lightly and water gently.

Good for leafy turnip greens or small-scale farming.

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💧 4. Watering

Keep soil consistently moist — turnip roots form best in moist soil.

Avoid overwatering — can cause cracking or fungal issues.

Water early morning or evening for better absorption.

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🌿 5. Organic Feeding

Every 10–15 days, apply:

Cow dung slurry or vermicompost tea

Jeevamrut or Panchagavya spray for faster growth

Avoid high nitrogen — it causes too much leaf growth instead of roots.

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🐛 6. Pest & Disease Control (Organic)

Common problems: Aphids, flea beetles, and root maggots.

✅ Remedies:

Neem oil spray (5 ml per liter) weekly.

Garlic–chili spray for caterpillars.

Remove yellow or damaged leaves immediately.

Rotate crops yearly to keep soil healthy.

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🌼 7. Harvesting

Ready in 40–60 days after sowing.

Harvest when roots are 5–8 cm in diameter (tender stage).

Pull plants gently when soil is moist.

Don’t delay — old turnips become hard and bitter.

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🌸 8. Extra Tips

Thin seedlings early (10–15 days) for better root shape.

Mulch soil with dry leaves or straw to retain moisture.

Companion crops: Radish, carrot, spinach.

Store harvested turnips in cool, moist cloth or fridge for freshness.