When To Plant Purple Top Turnips For Deer: Purple top turnips have long been a favorite among deer hunters and wildlife enthusiasts. These bulbous root vegetables not only provide a nutritious food source for deer but also offer various benefits to the overall ecosystem. As a cool-season crop, it is important to understand the optimal time to plant purple top turnips to ensure maximum growth and attraction for deer. Additionally, by exploring the key takeaways of this article, you will gain valuable insights into the factors that influence the successful cultivation of purple top turnips and their potential impact on deer populations.
To begin, it is worth noting that purple top turnips belong to the Brassica family. This unique fact is significant as it means that these turnips share similarities with other brassicas such as kale, broccoli, and radishes. One of the main impacts of growing purple top turnips for deer is their ability to provide a high-energy food source during the colder months when natural forage options are limited. The high sugar content and tender greens make them highly attractive to deer, luring them to specific areas for feeding and potentially increasing hunting success. Not only do these turnips benefit deer, but they also contribute to a healthier ecosystem by improving soil fertility and reducing erosion.
Moving forward, it is crucial to understand the key takeaways of this article. Firstly, timing is everything when it comes to planting purple top turnips for deer. By planting in late summer or early fall, you can ensure that the turnips reach their peak growth and palatability during the hunting season. Secondly, proper soil preparation and fertilization play a vital role in the success of purple top turnips. Knowing how to test your soil and amend it accordingly will maximize your turnip production. Lastly, it is important to consider other factors such as planting density, weed control, and the use of fencing to protect your turnip plots from excessive browsing by deer. Understanding these key takeaways will enable you to make informed decisions and enhance your strategies for attracting deer to your hunting grounds or wildlife management areas.
What you should know
1. Plant purple top turnips for deer during late summer or early fall to provide a nutrient-rich food source during the hunting season and help manage deer population.
2. Choose a suitable planting location with well-drained soil, preferably in an open area with adequate sunlight, and remove any competing vegetation to give the turnips ample space to grow.
3. Use a seed spreader to distribute purple top turnip seeds evenly over the prepared soil, ensuring a planting depth of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Consider adding a cover crop to improve soil fertility and prevent erosion.
4. Maintain moisture levels by regularly irrigating the turnips, especially during dry periods, to promote healthy growth and avoid premature bolting. Controlling weeds is crucial to prevent competition for nutrients and space.
5. After the turnips have grown to a mature size, typically within 60-80 days, deer can start feeding on the tops and bulbs. These turnips not only attract deer during hunting season but also act as natural attractants for other wildlife, enhancing biodiversity in your area.
When is the best time to plant Purple Top Turnips for deer?
The best time to plant Purple Top Turnips for deer is in late summer or early fall. These cool-season crops thrive in temperatures between 40 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, making them ideal for planting during this time of the year. By planting in late summer or early fall, you allow the turnips to establish strong root systems before the first frost hits. This ensures that they have enough time to grow and provide a nutritious food source for deer during the winter months.
When planting Purple Top Turnips, it is important to consider the specific climate and growing conditions in your area. If you live in a region with mild winters, you can plant the turnips as late as early winter. However, if you experience harsh winters with freezing temperatures, it is recommended to plant them earlier in the fall to allow for sufficient growth before the cold weather sets in.
Additionally, it is crucial to check the average first frost date in your area. Planting Purple Top Turnips at least 60-90 days before the first expected frost will give them ample time to mature and develop their bulbs. This will result in larger and more nutritious turnips that will attract and benefit deer during the hunting season.
Tips for planting Purple Top Turnips for deer
1. Soil preparation: Before planting, ensure that the soil is well-drained and has a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Turnips prefer fertile soil, so incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure can improve the soil’s nutrient content.
2. Seedbed preparation: Prepare a fine seedbed by removing any weeds or debris. Use a rake or garden tiller to break up clumps and create a smooth surface for planting.
3. Seed sowing: Sow the turnip seeds at a depth of ¼ to ½ inch, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If you are planting a larger area, consider using a seed spreader for even distribution.
Types of Purple Top Turnips for deer
1. Purple Top White Globe: This is the most common variety of Purple Top Turnips. It produces large, round bulbs with a purple top and white bottom. The foliage is also edible and provides additional forage for deer.
2. Seven Top Turnips: Unlike other varieties, Seven Top Turnips are grown primarily for their leafy greens rather than the bulbs. They have a high leaf-to-bulb ratio, making them an excellent choice for attracting deer with abundant forage.
Alternatives to Purple Top Turnips for deer
1. Brassicas: Brassicas such as kale, rape, and radishes are popular alternatives to Purple Top Turnips. They offer similar nutritional benefits and can be planted alongside or instead of turnips to provide a diverse food source for deer.
2. Clover: Clover is another excellent option for attracting deer. It is a perennial plant that provides year-round forage and is highly palatable to deer. Clover can be planted as a standalone food plot or mixed with turnips for added variety.
3. Winter wheat: Winter wheat is a cool-season grain that is highly attractive to deer. It can be planted in the fall and provides a valuable food source throughout the winter months. Winter wheat is easy to establish and requires minimal maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions: When To Plant Purple Top Turnips For Deer
1. What is the best time to plant purple top turnips for deer?
The best time to plant purple top turnips for deer is typically in late summer or early fall, depending on your location. It is recommended to plant them at least 60-90 days before the first expected frost date. This allows the turnips to establish and grow before the colder temperatures set in.
2. Can I plant purple top turnips for deer in the spring?
While it is possible to plant purple top turnips for deer in the spring, it is generally not the ideal time. Turnips are cool-season crops that prefer cooler temperatures for optimal growth. Planting them in the spring may result in premature bolting or poor growth due to the warmer weather. It is best to stick to planting them in late summer or early fall.
3. How should I prepare the soil before planting purple top turnips for deer?
Before planting purple top turnips for deer, it is important to prepare the soil properly. Start by clearing the area of any weeds or debris. Turn the soil using a garden fork or tiller to a depth of about 6-8 inches. Remove any rocks or large clumps of soil. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil fertility and drainage. Finally, rake the soil surface to create a smooth seedbed.
4. How deep should I plant the purple top turnip seeds?
Purple top turnip seeds should be planted at a depth of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. It is important not to plant them too deep, as this may hinder germination. Sow the seeds evenly across the prepared seedbed and lightly cover them with soil. Water the area gently to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
5. How often should I water the purple top turnips?
During the initial stages of growth, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist to aid germination. Water the purple top turnips regularly, providing about 1 inch of water per week. However, once the plants are established, they are relatively drought-tolerant and may not require frequent watering unless experiencing prolonged dry periods.
6. How long does it take for purple top turnips to mature?
Purple top turnips typically take about 60-90 days to reach maturity, depending on the variety and growing conditions. It is important to monitor the plants closely and harvest them when the roots have reached the desired size, usually around 2-3 inches in diameter. Leaving them in the ground for too long may result in woody or pithy roots.
7. Can I plant purple top turnips in containers or pots?
While it is possible to plant purple top turnips in containers or pots, it may not be the most ideal method. Turnips have long taproots that require ample space to grow and develop. If planting in containers, choose deep pots to accommodate the root growth. Ensure the containers have proper drainage to prevent waterlogging. Regular watering and fertilization may be necessary to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
8. Are purple top turnips attractive to deer?
Yes, purple top turnips are highly attractive to deer. They are known for their sweet and nutritious foliage, making them a popular food source for deer during the fall and winter months. Planting purple top turnips can help attract deer to specific areas, making them ideal for hunting or wildlife observation purposes.
9. Can I plant purple top turnips alongside other food plots?
Absolutely! Purple top turnips can be planted alongside other food plots to provide a diverse food source for deer. They can complement other cool-season crops like clover, brassicas, or cereal grains. This variety in food options can help attract and sustain deer populations throughout the year.
10. How can I protect my purple top turnips from deer browsing?
Deer can be voracious eaters and may quickly consume your purple top turnips if left unprotected. To protect your turnips from deer browsing, consider using fencing or netting around the planting area. Electric fencing can also be an effective deterrent. Additionally, using deer repellents or scent deterrents can help keep deer away from your turnips. Regular monitoring and maintenance of the protective measures are essential to ensure their effectiveness.