Seeding Rate Affects Root Production of Turnip [Brassica rapa L. (Rapifera Group)]

ABSTRACT Field studies were conducted in the spring and fall 1997 to evaluate the effects of seeding rate and plant population on yield and grade-out of turnips grown for root production. Open-pollinated and hybrid turnip cultivars were planted with a belt-type precision seeder at 56, 112, 168 mm in single- or double-plant lines per row and with a bulk seeder set at the smallest opening (average seed spacing of 51) utilizing 100% viable seed or 50% viable seed/50% killed seed (by weight) mix. Overall, total yield was not affected by seeding rate or seeder; however, plant population produced a shift in yield among grades. Generally, yield of extra-large roots was greatest on plots with lower plant populations. Medium and cull yields were greater on plots with the higher plant populations (bulk seeder with 100% viable seed and precision seeder with 56-mm spacing or 2-row configuration). Yield of culls increased as plant population increased. Results from using a bulk seeder with 100% or 50% viable seed were inconsistent.