**2.1.3 The turnip,** *Brassica rapa L. var. rapa*

The turnip, *Brassica rapa L. var. rapa*, **(Brassicaceae)** is produced in specialized market gardening. The plant is normally bi-annual (photo 4). In its vegetative stage it is constituted of a basal rosette made of about fifteen leaves with real green limb and bristling with rough hairs (photo 4).

According to the varietal type, it has a tuberous root of flattened, conical or cylindrical form and of variable color (white (photo 4), yellow, black or two-tone) (LAURENCE S et al., 2009). One notes about thirty varieties but the range of the varieties currently cultivated is rather restricted (Tokyo hybridizes F1, Chinese turnip…). Turnips are primarily cultivated in full field by direct seeding on fertile well-prepared seedbeds.

The needs in mineral elements are important and sustained fertilization (NPK) is needed before planting and during the growth cycle. The application of manure must be done before planting and preferably on the previous crop in a rotation.

The growth cycle is 40 - 70 days dependent on climatic conditions and varieties. Turnips are harvested as young roots by successive thinnings. The diseases control and protection of turnips must be regular due to frequent pest attacks.

Photo 4. Turnip: Brassica rapa L. (White – Turnip)
