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Purple Top White Globe Turnip Seeds

Scientific name Brassica rapa subsp. rapa

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Alliance of Native Seedkeepers  |  SKU: TN2

Seed packet & garden essentials

What to know before you plant

View complete growing & care facts
300 minimum seeds per packet
  • Maturity30-39 Days · 30-39 Days
  • Growth habitRosette · Biennial · 19–24 in tall
  • Best usedirect-sown rows, cool-season beds, storage harvests, and careful thinning
  • Flavor & character‘Purple Top White Globe’ produces smooth, round roots with white bottoms and bright purple shoulders, firm texture, and mild, slightly sweet flavor. · Mixed
  • Germination7–14 days · 60–75 °F
  • Seed preparationUse clean seed-starting conditions, the listed sowing depth and temperature, and steady moisture without saturation
  • SunFull sun
  • Spacingspace 2 in · rows 18 in
  • Container fitPossible in a properly sized container with reliable drainage, moisture, and room for the mature plant
  • Water needsModerate
  • SoilLoamy · pH 6.0–6.5
  • Planting seasonSpring/Fall · blooms Spring · Hardy
$200 USD

Pickup available at Bertie County Seeds

Usually ready in 2-4 days
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Triple-tested seed qualityRegular quality and germination checks support every packet.

We regularly test seed quality and germination as lots move through storage and packing. We stand behind the seed we send and want customers to contact us when a packet does not perform as reasonably expected.

1-year seed warrantyCoverage begins on the date of purchase.

When properly stored, planted, and cared for, we guarantee reasonable germination and true-to-type growth for one year from the date of purchase. Conditions outside our control—including extreme weather, pests, unsuitable storage, and gardener error—are excluded. Contact us when something is not right so we can review the situation and work toward a replacement, refund, or another fair resolution.

Non-GMO / BE seed policyWe do not buy or sell genetically engineered or bioengineered seed.

Every seed variety we sell is non-GMO.

USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard defines bioengineered foods as containing detectable genetic material modified through in vitro recombinant DNA methods in ways not achievable through conventional breeding or found in nature.

  • Hybrid means parent lines were conventionally crossed; hybrid does not mean GMO.
  • Heirloom and open-pollinated describe how a variety is maintained and reproduced.
  • Organic certification is separate and is shown only when verified for the individual product.

Read how we define heirloom, hybrid, and GMO/BE seed · USDA BE Standard

Packed in Colerain, North CarolinaPrepared in our seed room for gardens across the country.

Seeds are packed and shipped from Colerain, North Carolina. Our packets use forestry-certified paper, and we use recyclable paper mailers where appropriate. AONSK is also a 1% for the Planet partner while continuing to reduce waste in packing and fulfillment.

Seed success profile

Rules-based · no AI
Gardener experience Beginner-friendly
Germination difficulty Straightforward
Preparation before sowing
Use clean seed-starting conditions, the listed sowing depth and temperature, and steady moisture without saturation
Germination speed
Typical — usually 7–21 days
Growing complexity
Direct-sown or transplanted crop requiring loose soil, thinning, and careful moisture management
Patience and timing
30-39 Days
Is this seed a good match for your experience?
Expected germination
7–14
Germination temperature
60–75 °F
Stratification
Not normally required by the current record
Scarification
Not normally required by the current record
Pre-soaking
Not normally required by the current record
Light during germination
Cover to the recorded depth; provide strong light immediately after emergence
Germination pattern
Usually reliable when seed is stored well and temperature, depth, moisture, and preparation match the recorded requirements
Transplant sensitivity
Root crops are generally direct sown; alliums vary
Starting method
Cataloged as suitable for direct sowing; follow the product-specific timing and depth.
Best chance of success
For Purple Top White Globe Turnip Seeds, control temperature and moisture at sowing, label the start date, and compare emergence with the complete recorded germination window before reseeding.
What to expect

Preparation: Use clean seed-starting conditions, the listed sowing depth and temperature, and steady moisture without saturation. Germination light: Cover to the recorded depth; provide strong light immediately after emergence. Expected emergence: 7-14. Temperature: 60-75 °F.

Slow germination is not automatically failed germination.

Maintain the listed temperature, moisture, light, and treatment conditions for the full expected window. Some seed lots emerge gradually rather than all at once.

1 Beginner-friendly 2 One extra step 3 Some experience helpful 4 Patient growers 5 Advanced propagation

This deterministic profile uses recorded product facts; it is not Artificial Intelligence and is not a guarantee. Seed age, storage, sowing depth, moisture, temperature, light, local conditions, and aftercare can all affect results. Last reviewed July 2026.

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Open the detailed garden-fit planner Deterministic rules · no Artificial Intelligence · no live weather service

Complete product description

Purple Top White Globe Turnip Seeds

The dependable heirloom of garden tradition. ‘Purple Top White Globe’ produces smooth, round roots with white bottoms and bright purple shoulders, firm texture, and mild, slightly sweet flavor. The roots are crisp when young and tender even at larger sizes, perfect for roasting, mashing, or slicing fresh.

Plants mature in just 55 days and also produce flavorful greens for cooking. Adaptable and fast-growing in spring or fall.

First introduced in the 19th century, this variety remains a homestead favorite—simple, versatile, and enduringly reliable.

Minimum Seed Count: 300 seeds

Every recorded growing detail

Complete growing & care facts

Continue to the garden-fit planner

Plant identity

Minimum seed count 300 seeds
Seed product profile Root allium
Scientific name Brassica rapa subsp. rapa
Also known as Turnip, Turnip Seeds - Purple Top White Globe Turnip
Color Mixed
Life cycle Biennial
Botanical family Brassicaceae
Reproductive type Open-Pollinated (OP)
Heritage qualifiers Heirloom
Native to the United States Domesticated Plant
Domestication note Mediterranean Basin

Seed success and gardener experience

Gardener experience Beginner-friendlyLevel 2 of 5
Germination difficulty StraightforwardLevel 2 of 5
Preparation before sowing Use clean seed-starting conditions, the listed sowing depth and temperature, and steady moisture without saturation
Stratification Not normally required by the current record
Scarification Not normally required by the current record
Pre-soaking Not normally required by the current record
Light during germination Cover to the recorded depth; provide strong light immediately after emergence
Germination pattern Usually reliable when seed is stored well and temperature, depth, moisture, and preparation match the recorded requirements
Growing complexity Direct-sown or transplanted crop requiring loose soil, thinning, and careful moisture management
Transplant sensitivity Root crops are generally direct sown; alliums vary
First harvest or bloom 30-39 Days
Best chance of success For Purple Top White Globe Turnip Seeds, control temperature and moisture at sowing, label the start date, and compare emergence with the complete recorded germination window before reseeding.

Timing and climate

Days to maturity 30-39 Days
Germination 7–14 Days
Germination temperature 60–75 °F
Planting season Spring/Fall
Bloom season Spring
Frost tolerance Hardy
Sunlight Full sun
Water needs Moderate

Site, soil, and space

Soil type Loamy
Preferred soil pH 6.0–6.5
Seed depth 1/4 in
Plant spacing 2 in
Row spacing 18 in
Mature height 19–24 in
Growth habit Rosette
Suitable growing locations In-ground bed, Raised bed, Greenhouse, High Tunnel, Containers, Community garden

Crop-specific details

Flavor profile ‘Purple Top White Globe’ produces smooth, round roots with white bottoms and bright purple shoulders, firm texture, and mild, slightly sweet flavor.

Garden-fit planning for this variety

Will Purple Top White Globe Turnip Seeds fit your garden?

Check soil depth, texture, direct-sowing conditions, moisture, thinning, and season timing.

Rules-based · no AI
Questions for this root or allium seed
Seed-starting fit and patience
Recorded product profileBeginner-friendlyStraightforwardRead why
Soil test, pH, drainage, and amendment calculator Have a laboratory soil report? Enter pH, nutrients, texture, bed size, and site observations here. Open soil tools
Recorded soil typeLoamy
Recorded pH range6.0–6.5
Water needsModerate
LightFull sun

Use a current laboratory soil test

Soil-test interpreter

Compare your report with this product's listed pH target: 6.0–6.5.

This tool interprets values you enter; it does not replace laboratory or Cooperative Extension amendment rates. Soil test methods and nutrient recommendations vary by region.

The full variety record

Sowing, care, harvest, troubleshooting, and history

How to start Purple Top White Globe Turnip Seeds from seedPreparation, timing, depth, germination, transplanting, spacing, and early care

Variety-specific germination notes

Preparation: Use clean seed-starting conditions, the listed sowing depth and temperature, and steady moisture without saturation. Germination light: Cover to the recorded depth; provide strong light immediately after emergence. Expected emergence: 7-14. Temperature: 60-75 °F.

Complete sowing and planting guidance

Choosing the Right Location:

Light Requirements: Turnip - Purple Top Globe thrives in full sun to partial shade. Select a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Although adaptable to various soil types, it grows best in loamy soil enriched with organic matter.
Planting Seeds:

Timing: Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. Turnips can tolerate light frosts and prefer cooler temperatures.
Sowing Depth: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep in rows.
Spacing: Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches apart to allow adequate space for growth. Rows should be spaced about 12-18 inches apart.
Watering:

Initial Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until the seeds germinate, which typically takes 7-14 days.
Ongoing Watering: Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. Turnips need consistent moisture to develop tender roots. Water the plants at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
Temperature and Climate:

Preferred Temperature: Turnip - Purple Top Globe grows best in cooler temperatures ranging from 60-70°F (15-21°C). It can tolerate light frosts and cooler temperatures, which can enhance the flavor of the roots.
Fertilization:

Feeding: Incorporate organic matter such as compost into the soil before planting. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer at planting time and side-dress with compost or organic fertilizer mid-season if necessary.
Pruning and Thinning:

Thinning: Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding, which can hinder growth and reduce air circulation. Proper thinning ensures larger and more uniform turnips.
Pruning: Not necessary for turnips.
Mulching:

Mulch Application: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Avoid piling mulch directly against the stems to prevent rot.
Pest and Disease Management:

Common Pests: Turnips can attract pests such as flea beetles, aphids, and root maggots. Use row covers to protect young plants and insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests if necessary.
Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal diseases. Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of mildew and other fungal issues. Crop rotation and proper spacing can also help reduce disease incidence.
How to grow this specific varietyLight, water, fertility, support, spacing, airflow, crop behavior, and season-long care

Complete growing guide

How to grow Turnip: choose a site with the listed sunlight and soil requirements. Water consistently, avoid overcrowding, and monitor plants for pests, disease, and nutrient stress. Harvest at the proper stage for best flavor and seed quality.
Practical field and garden tipsExtra techniques, timing adjustments, and observations that improve success
Additional tips for Turnip: succession plant when appropriate, label varieties clearly, and keep good garden notes on germination, vigor, flavor, and harvest timing so you can compare varieties season to season.
Harvest, storage, uses, and benefitsWhen and how to harvest, ways to use the crop, storage, culinary value, habitat value, and garden roles

Uses and benefits

Uses and Benefits:
Purple Top Globe Turnip (Brassica rapa) is known for its large, round roots with purple tops and white flesh. It is often used in soups, stews, and roasted dishes.

Turnips provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber, supporting overall health. Purple Top Globe Turnips are versatile in culinary applications, adding flavor and nutrition to dishes.
Seed saving and carrying the variety forwardPollination, isolation, selection, harvest, cleaning, drying, and storage
Saving seeds from Purple Top Globe Turnip (Brassica rapa):

1. Selecting Plants for Seed Saving:

Choose healthy, vigorous plants with well-formed roots.
Avoid plants showing signs of disease or poor growth.
2. Harvesting Seeds:

Timing: Allow the turnips to flower and form seed pods. Wait until the seed pods turn brown and dry on the plant.
Collection: Cut the seed pods from the plant and place them in a paper bag to dry further.
3. Cleaning Seeds:

Separation: Break open the dried seed pods to release the seeds.
Inspection: Remove any chaff and inspect for cleanliness and freedom from mold or pests.
4. Drying Seeds:

Spread the seeds on a paper towel or screen in a well-ventilated, dry area. Allow them to dry completely for one to two weeks.
5. Storing Seeds:

Containers: Store seeds in labeled paper envelopes or airtight containers.
Storage Conditions: Keep in a cool, dry, and dark place.
Viability: Use seeds within three to five years for best results.
6. Testing Seed Viability:

Test by placing seeds on a damp paper towel in a plastic bag in a warm place and check for germination.
Tips for Successful Seed Saving:

Isolation: Maintain distance between different turnip varieties to prevent cross-pollination.
Pollinators: Turnips are pollinated by insects, so encourage pollinators in your garden.
Record Keeping: Keep detailed records of the process.
Common pests, diseases, and growing problemsIdentification, prevention, crop-safe response, and when intervention is justified

Complete pest and problem guide

Common pests and problems for Turnip: monitor for chewing insects, sap-sucking insects, fungal leaf spots, damping off, poor germination from cold or dry soil, and stress from inconsistent watering. Use crop rotation, spacing, mulch, and good airflow to reduce pressure.
Questions gardeners ask about this seedProduct-specific answers for sowing, care, harvest, use, and seed saving
Frequently Asked Questions — Turnip

Q: When should I plant Turnip?
A: Follow the planting season listed on this product page and adjust for your local frost dates.

Q: How deep should I sow the seeds?
A: Use the seed depth listed in the growing facts.

Q: Can I save seed from this variety?
A: Open-pollinated varieties can generally be saved when properly isolated and selected; hybrids may not grow true to type.
History, provenance, and cultural contextWhat is documented, what is reported, what remains uncertain, and how the variety reached gardeners

Scientific name: Brassica rapa subsp. rapa

Plant and variety history

Turnip Seeds - Purple Top White Globe Turnip belongs to a plant lineage long associated with Mediterranean and Old World garden agriculture. It was selected over generations for kitchen, market, ornamental, or herbal value and remains useful in modern home gardens.

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Customer experience

Reviews for Purple Top White Globe Turnip Seeds

Customer Reviews

Based on 1 review
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krystina Hernandez (United States)

I had to wait to see the germination rates if the turnip seed to offer an actual review. The shipping speed was phenomenal! The seed packets are beautiful with amazing art depicting the appearance of the respective plant. The detailed information with regard to planting instruction surpassed many a competitor; by including bloom time as well as if the plant is perennial or annual, consistently on every package. purple top white globe turnip had germination rates of 100%, solid germination. Topped by decent seed counts and being affordable. I will purchase from Bertie County seeds again in the future.

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