Turnip Purple Top Milan Seeds

A fast-growing, early-maturing variety with smooth, flat round roots and attractive purple shoulders over creamy white skin.

 

Purple Top Milan is a traditional favourite for its fine texture, mild flavour and versatility in the kitchen. It can be harvested young for tender baby turnips or left to mature for roasting, mashing or stews.

 

The leafy tops are also edible and nutritious. This variety performs well in cool conditions and is ideal for spring and autumn sowing in Irish gardens.

 

Seed Qty Approx 1750

 

Sow March to July directly outdoors

Germination 7 to 14 days

Soil and Position Light, fertile, well drained soil in full sun; avoid freshly manured ground

Height 30–40 cm (leafy tops); roots develop below ground

Harvest May to October; harvest young for best flavour and texture

Companion plants Peas, onions, nasturtiums

Nutritional notes Rich in vitamin C, fibre and potassium

 

Sowing instructions

 

Sow thinly in rows 1.5 cm deep in finely prepared soil. Water well and keep moist during germination. Thin seedlings to 10–15 cm apart when large enough to handle. Sow successionally every 2–3 weeks for a continuous harvest.

 

Grow and maintenance

 

Grow in full sun in fertile, well drained soil. Water regularly to prevent roots becoming woody. Protect young plants from flea beetle and cabbage root fly. Harvest when roots are 5–8 cm across for best flavour. Use tops as leafy greens.

 

Uses and benefits

 

Perfect for early cropping and versatile in the kitchen. Enjoy raw in salads, lightly steamed, or cooked in soups and stews. The tender roots and edible tops make this a dual-purpose crop with excellent flavour and garden performance.