An old Swiss variety whose cylindrical white root with a purple collar, about 5-7 cm in diameter, is sown in summer and harvested in autumn. Very fine and sweet white flesh. Traditionally used in Switzerland and Germany during the Räbeliechtli festival, traditional autumn parades during which children carry candles in carved raves, like the squashes across the Channel.
Originally from Muhen AG and later improved by the Wadenswil research institute, this variety was about to be removed from the official catalogue, so we resumed maintenance selection in autumn 2023, in order to preserve it.

Successful sowing of red Zefa turnips

• Sowing: sow from the end of July to the beginning of September.
• Harvest: September/November.

Sowing: In July and August, broadcast in beds, 2-3 mm deep, after having made two false sowings to avoid weeds. The soil must be loosened and the surface must be well refined. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate.
Once the seeds have sprouted, quickly place an insect-proof veil to prevent flea beetles from perforating the cotyledons of the young seedlings.
Thin to 10 cm along the row. Water abundantly during dry periods.

Good associations

Place fennel next to your turnip crops to repel turnip flies.
The turnip will appreciate the company of many vegetables: beetroot, carrot, celery, Brussels sprouts, spinach, peas, leeks, lamb's lettuce, mint, etc.

Harvesting turnips

Turnip harvesting takes place before the cold period.

The enemies

Flea beetles: place an insect-proof blanket as soon as the seeds have sprouted.
Turnip fly: The larvae of this fly burrow into the flesh of turnips. Place an insect net.