white turnip problems

forest flame · Posted: Sun Jul 18, 2010 2:34 pm Post subject: white turnip problems

hi all
we just lifted the first of our white turnips (market express) and most of the roots were split.i read that this is down to drying out but we had kept the plot well watered.also when we cut into them alot of them were brown and diseased looking. does anyone know what this is.i am afraid of it spreading to our other brassicas.
all help greatly appreciated as always

James Kilkelly · Posted: Sun Jul 18, 2010 3:50 pm Post subject:

The answer to your question is probably in this recent turnip problem thread forest flame........ Turnip Left Too Long?
Loads of pics to help you diagnose.

michael brenock · Posted: Mon Jul 19, 2010 8:12 am Post subject:

splitting can be caused by a number of factors and irregular watering is one of them.
Another cause is too high a level of Nitrogen or too low a level of Potassium. Provide a more balanced feed, avoid giving liquid feeds that are too high in Nitrogen.
The browning around the splits is caused by a free living fungus in the soil and is encouraged by any wound in the flesh of the root in the presence of moisture. if the browning starts from the inside then the problem is probably caused by Boron deficiency which can be prevented but not cured.
michael brenock horticultural advisor (retired)

forest flame · Posted: Mon Jul 19, 2010 7:07 pm Post subject:

thank you james and michael
now i am concerned as i have cabbages and cauliflowers in the same bed.they seem to be fine at the moment but should i be concerned?
thanks again for the replies much appreciated.

michael brenock · Posted: Mon Jul 19, 2010 8:57 pm Post subject:

If it is Boron deficiency then it will show in the cauliflower as brown spots on the curds that turn soft and rot in the rain but if it is a root disease then the cauliflowers and cabbages will survive as that disease confines itself usually to turnips and swedes.
michael brenock horticultural advisor (retired)

forest flame · Posted: Mon Jul 19, 2010 9:00 pm Post subject:

thanks michael
king of the problem solvers

michael brenock · Posted: Mon Jul 19, 2010 9:08 pm Post subject:

Forest flame I am not king of the problem solvers but thank you for the compliment. my training taught me to be logical in approaching a problem and to every problem there is a solution (nearly always). I love a challenge and I like to help[ people who have problems with growing crops.
michael brenock horticultural advisor (retired)

forest flame · Posted: Mon Jul 19, 2010 9:13 pm Post subject:

well thanks again michael your help is much appreciated