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Turnip Hakurei

Turnip Hakurei

Brassica rapa subsp. rapa

vegetable

Hakurei is a Japanese heirloom turnip variety prized for its tender, sweet white roots and edible greens. It matures quickly (35-50 days) and produces smooth, globe-shaped roots that are excellent for both raw and cooked preparations. The mild, delicate flavor makes it popular in Asian cuisine and increasingly in Western markets.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun, 6+ hours daily; tolerates light afternoon shade in hot climates
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Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; 1-1.5 inches per week. Irregular watering causes cracking and bitter flavor.
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Spacing: 4 inches
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Days to maturity: 35-50
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Planting depth: 0.25-0.5 inches

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy soil, slightly sandy preferred
pH: 6.0-7.5
Amendments:
Compost or well-rotted manure Balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) Avoid fresh manure which causes forking

Growing Zones

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Thrives in zones 2-9; prefers cool seasons for best quality

2a 2b 3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b

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Growth Stages

1

Germination

5-10 days

Seeds sprout and cotyledons emerge from soil

Keep soil moist; germination occurs in 5-10 days at 60-70°F. Provide consistent moisture and avoid crusting over.

2

Seedling

1-2 weeks

True leaves develop; plants are small with 2-4 leaves

Thin seedlings to proper spacing when 1-2 inches tall. Water gently to avoid damaging delicate plants.

3

Vegetative Growth

2-3 weeks

Foliage expands and root development begins; greens become harvestable

Maintain consistent moisture and fertilize with balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Begin harvesting outer leaves once plants are established.

4

Root Development & Maturation

2-3 weeks

Roots enlarge and become globe-shaped; skin smooths and whitens

Continue consistent watering and fertilization. Roots should reach 1.5-2.5 inches diameter. Avoid over-crowding for optimal root development.

5

Harvest Ready

Ready to harvest; best within 1-2 days of peak maturity

Roots reach 1.5-2.5 inches diameter with smooth white skin and tender texture

Harvest when roots are small to medium for best tenderness and flavor. Can harvest greens and roots separately or together.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Carrot Spinach Chard Lettuce Garlic Onion Chamomile Mint

Avoid planting near:

Brassicas (cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower) - same pests and diseases Pole beans Mustard Radish - compete for space and nutrients

Common Pests

  • Use row covers until flowering; apply beneficial nematodes; rotate crops; remove crop debris

  • Row covers on young plants; neem oil spray; kaolin clay; encourage natural predators

  • Strong water spray; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage ladybugs and parasitic wasps

  • Hand-pick larvae; spinosad spray; maintain good garden hygiene

  • Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; sulfur or copper fungicide if needed

Uses

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Fresh and Raw Preparations

Culinary

Hakurei turnips are exceptional when eaten raw due to their mild, sweet flavor and tender texture. Slice thin for salads, julienne for coleslaws, or enjoy whole as a crisp snack. [source]

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Asian Cuisine

Culinary

A staple in Japanese cooking, often pickled as tsukemono, grilled, steamed, or featured in soups and stir-fries. The greens are equally valued in Asian dishes. [source]

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Roasting and Cooking

Culinary

Roasted Hakurei turnips develop a subtle sweetness. They cook quickly due to their small size and are excellent in braises, gratins, and side dishes. [source]

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Nutritional and Health Benefits

Medicinal

Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and glucosinolates (compounds studied for anti-cancer properties). The greens are especially nutrient-dense with calcium and iron. [source]

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Pollinator and Beneficial Insect Support

Wildlife

If allowed to bolt, Hakurei turnips produce small yellow flowers that attract pollinators and beneficial insects to the garden. [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 1.5-2.5 inches in diameter for optimal tenderness and sweet flavor. Hakurei stays tender even at slightly larger sizes compared to other turnips. Pull roots gently from the ground. Harvest greens anytime after plants are established by picking outer leaves, or harvest entire plant with root. Best harvested in morning. Turnips store well in cool (32-40°F), humid conditions for 4-5 months.

Fun Facts

  • 🌱 Hakurei is a Japanese heirloom variety that gained popularity in Western markets only in the last 20-30 years, despite being grown in Japan for centuries.
  • 🌱 Unlike many turnip varieties, Hakurei can be eaten raw at almost any size without becoming tough or woody, making it exceptionally versatile.
  • 🌱 Both the roots and greens are completely edible and nutritious; a single plant provides two harvests, making it extremely efficient for small gardens.

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