Purple top turnips are a popular choice for attracting deer to hunting areas and wildlife food plots. Native to Europe, this fast-growing biennial plant belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is cultivated primarily for its edible roots. Interestingly, the purple top turnips got their name from the distinct purple coloration found on the upper part of their roots. While the roots make for a delicious addition to a variety of dishes, their ability to attract and benefit deer is what makes them especially valuable to hunters and wildlife enthusiasts.
When it comes to planting purple top turnips for deer, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, these turnips have a high nutritional value, offering deer a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates. This makes them an excellent choice for improving deer health and body condition during the fall and winter months when other food sources may be scarce. Additionally, purple top turnips have a quick germination period of about 4 to 5 days, allowing for fast establishment and rapid growth. This makes them an ideal option for creating attractive food plots that can entice deer in a shorter period of time.
Moving forward, the article will delve into essential tips and guidelines for planting purple top turnips to maximize their effectiveness in attracting deer. We will explore optimal planting techniques, suitable soil conditions, and key maintenance practices to ensure a successful and abundant crop of purple top turnips. By following these guidelines, you can create an irresistible food source that will not only benefit deer but also enhance your hunting experience. Stay tuned for the upcoming section, where we will outline the crucial steps to successfully establish purple top turnips in your wildlife food plot.
Key Takeaways
1. Purple top turnips are an excellent food source for deer during the fall and winter, providing them with much-needed nutrition.
2. To successfully plant purple top turnips for deer, choose a location with well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight, and prepare the soil by removing any weeds or grass.
3. Plant the turnip seeds in rows, spacing them out to allow adequate room for growth, and cover them with soil, ensuring they are about half an inch deep.
4. Regularly monitor the turnip seeds for germination, and once they have sprouted, thin out the seedlings to prevent overcrowding. Apply fertilizer as needed to boost growth.
5. As the turnips reach maturity, typically after 60-75 days, deer will begin to graze on them. It is recommended to allow the deer to access the turnips when the weather turns colder, as the increased sugar content makes them even more appealing to deer.
How Can You Efficiently Plant Purple Top Turnips for Deer?
Best Soil Conditions for Purple Top Turnips
Purple top turnips thrive in well-draining soil with a pH level around 6.0 to 7.0. Before planting, test your soil’s pH level and make necessary adjustments with lime or sulfur. Loosen the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches to promote healthy root growth.
Choosing and Preparing the Planting Site
Select an area with ample sunlight for your purple top turnips, as they require at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Clear the site of any weeds or debris, as they can hinder growth and compete for nutrients. Remove any large rocks or stones from the soil.
When to Plant Purple Top Turnips
The ideal time for planting purple top turnips is during late summer or early fall, around 90 to 120 days before the first expected frost. This allows the turnips to develop fully before the colder temperatures arrive.
Planting Purple Top Turnips Seeds
Sow the seeds of purple top turnips at a depth of 0.5 to 1 inch in well-prepared soil. Space the seeds approximately 4 to 6 inches apart, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and gently press them down to secure good soil contact.
Watering and Fertilizing
After planting, keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering, as it may lead to rotting. Provide water to the plants whenever the top inch of soil becomes dry. Apply a balanced fertilizer rich in phosphorus and potassium to promote robust growth.
Controlling Weeds and Pests
Maintain a weed-free environment around your purple top turnips by regularly removing any competing plants. You can use mulch or landscape fabric to suppress weed growth. Monitor for pests such as aphids, caterpillars, or deer. Employ organic pest control methods or protective measures if necessary.
Harvesting Purple Top Turnips
Purple top turnips are typically ready for harvest around 60 to 90 days after planting. The roots should reach a desirable size of 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Gently pull the turnips out of the soil, ensuring the tops are intact, if you plan to use them as forage for deer.
Benefits of Planting Purple Top Turnips for Deer
1. High Nutritional Value: Purple top turnips are a great source of essential nutrients and minerals beneficial for deer’s health and antler development.
2. Forage Availability: Planting purple top turnips provides deer with a readily available food source during the fall and winter months when other feed options may be limited.
3. Attractant for Hunting: Purple top turnips attract deer due to their palatability, helping hunters with successful encounters during deer season.
Guides for Maximizing Turnip Attraction to Deer
1. Utilize Proper Planting Techniques: Follow the instructions for soil preparation, seeding, and fertilizing mentioned above to optimize turnip growth.
2. Consider Food Plots: Combine purple top turnips with other attractive plants like clover or brassicas to create enticing food plots for deer.
3. Plant Enough Turnips: Ensure you plant sufficient purple top turnips to provide an ample food supply to attract and sustain deer populations in your hunting area.
4. Rotate Planting Locations: Alternate the planting locations each year to prevent nutrient depletion in the soil and maintain strong turnip growth.
5. Monitor and Adjust: Regularly check your turnip plot, make adjustments, and address any potential issues promptly to maximize success in attracting deer.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best time to plant purple top turnips for deer?
The ideal time to plant purple top turnips for deer is typically during the late summer or early fall. This ensures that the turnips have enough time to grow and develop before the colder winter months.
2. Can I grow purple top turnips for deer in any type of soil?
Purple top turnips can thrive in a wide range of soil types, but they prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It is important to ensure that the soil has adequate moisture content and proper pH levels for optimum growth.
3. How should I prepare the soil before planting purple top turnips?
Before planting purple top turnips, it is important to prepare the soil properly. Start by removing any existing vegetation and weeds. Then, loosen the soil using a garden fork or tiller and add organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility.
4. Should I use any fertilizers when planting purple top turnips for deer?
While purple top turnips are generally low-maintenance, applying a balanced fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content can help promote healthy growth. It is recommended to conduct a soil test to determine if any specific nutrient deficiencies need to be addressed.
5. How deep should I plant purple top turnip seeds?
Purple top turnip seeds should be planted at a depth of approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Be sure to sow the seeds evenly and provide enough space between each seed to allow proper growth and development.
6. Do purple top turnips attract deer during the hunting season?
Absolutely! Purple top turnips are highly attractive to deer, particularly during the hunting season. Planting these turnips in strategic locations can significantly increase your chances of attracting deer to a particular area.
7. How much sunlight do purple top turnips require?
Purple top turnips thrive in full sun, which means they require at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Inadequate sunlight may result in stunted growth and decreased yield.
8. Can I plant purple top turnips alongside other food plot crops?
Absolutely! Purple top turnips can be effectively planted in combination with other food plot crops such as clover or winter wheat. This not only provides a diverse food source for deer but also helps maximize the overall nutritional value of the plot.
9. How long does it take for purple top turnips to mature?
Purple top turnips typically take around 60 to 80 days to reach maturity. However, you can start seeing deer actively feeding on the greens within just a few weeks of planting.
10. Are purple top turnips resistant to deer browsing?
While purple top turnips are indeed attractive to deer, they can be susceptible to browsing. Utilizing adequate fencing or installing an electric fence can help protect your turnips from excessive deer damage.
Final Thoughts
Planting purple top turnips for deer can be a highly rewarding endeavor for any hunting enthusiast or wildlife enthusiast. Not only do they provide a nutritious food source for deer, but they also contribute to overall herd health and habitat management. By following the recommended planting guidelines, providing optimal growing conditions, and protecting the crop from excessive browsing, you can create a flourishing food plot that attracts deer and enhances the hunting experience.
Remember, the key to successful turnip planting lies in proper soil preparation, timely planting, and effective deer management practices. With a little effort and patience, you can enjoy the sight of deer flocking to your purple top turnip plot, creating unforgettable memories and successful hunting seasons.