How to Grow Hakurei Turnip
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Hakurei Turnip
Brassica rapa subsp. rapa
vegetableHakurei is a Japanese white turnip variety prized for its tender, sweet roots and edible greens. This fast-growing brassica produces smooth, mild-flavored roots that are excellent both raw and cooked, with delicate, nutritious tops that rival spinach in flavor. It's a popular choice for farmers markets and home gardens due to its quick maturity and versatility.
When should you plant Hakurei Turnip in your zone?
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Example Hakurei Turnip timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Hakurei Turnip
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Hakurei Turnip
Around May 17≈ 30 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Hakurei Turnip dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-9; prefers cool-season growing in spring and fall
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Seedling
1-2 weeksDelicate cotyledons emerge within 4-8 days, followed by true leaves. Plants are small and vulnerable.
Keep soil consistently moist. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once they have 2-3 true leaves. Protect from pests with row covers.
Vegetative Growth
2-3 weeksRapid leaf development with no visible root swelling yet. Plants grow bushy with increasingly robust foliage.
Maintain consistent watering and regular fertilizing. Remove any diseased or yellow leaves. Monitor for flea beetles and other brassica pests.
Root Development
1-2 weeksRoots begin to swell as the plant approaches maturity. Greens are full-sized and tender. Roots remain mostly underground.
Thin any remaining crowded plants. Water deeply and consistently to prevent root cracking. Continue pest management.
Harvest Ready
Harvest window is 1-2 weeksRoots are 1.5-3 inches in diameter with smooth, white skin. Greens are vibrant and tender. Plants are at peak flavor.
Harvest promptly when roots reach desired size to maintain tenderness. Larger roots may become woody. Roots can be pulled or dug gently.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Row covers on young plants, neem oil spray, diatomaceous earth, or pyrethrin-based insecticides
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Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), hand-picking, row covers, or spinosad
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Water spray to dislodge, insecticidal soap, neem oil, or ladybug introduction
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Row covers, diatomaceous earth, or beneficial nematodes applied to soil
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Crop rotation (3-year minimum), lime addition to raise pH, remove infected plants immediately
Uses
Fresh Raw and Cooked
CulinaryHakurei roots are sweet and crisp when eaten raw, sliced thin in salads or as a crudité. They can be roasted, steamed, stir-fried, or pickled for diverse flavor applications. [source]
Greens for Cooking
CulinaryThe tender greens are less bitter than many brassica varieties and can be enjoyed sautéed, in soups, or raw in salads when young and tender. [source]
Vitamin and Mineral Content
MedicinalRich in vitamin C, potassium, and glucosinolates—compounds with potential anti-cancer properties. Both roots and greens support immune function and overall wellness. [source]
Root Storage
HouseholdHakurei turnips store well in cool conditions (32-40°F, 90% humidity) for 2-3 months, making them excellent for season extension and winter eating. [source]
Wildlife Food
WildlifeGreens provide food for beneficial insects, and the flowers (if plants bolt) attract pollinators. Deer and rabbits enjoy the foliage and roots if not protected. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest roots when 1.5-3 inches in diameter for peak tenderness and flavor (typically 30-50 days). Pull gently or dig carefully to avoid damaging roots. Harvest greens anytime once they're 6 inches tall—remove outer leaves first to encourage continued production. Both roots and greens can be harvested together or separately. In cool weather, roots can stay in ground longer for storage. For extended harvest, succession plant every 2-3 weeks.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Hakurei is a modern Japanese heirloom variety introduced to Western markets in the 1990s and has become a favorite at farmers markets due to its appearance, tenderness, and dual-harvest potential.
- 🌱 Unlike traditional turnips, Hakurei roots remain tender and sweet even when allowed to grow slightly larger, making it more forgiving for home gardeners.
- 🌱 The name 'Hakurei' means 'white spirit' in Japanese, reflecting the roots' pristine white color and delicate nature.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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