Tokinashi Turnips arranged in rows in a Japanese wooden box on a white background.
A man in tunic holding some freshly harvested Tokinashi Turnips.
A large Tokinashi Turnip in a wooden box with smaller turnips and Japanese props beside it.
Two wooden boxes holding Tokinashi Turnips with a sliced turnip beside them on a grey background.
A bunch of Tokinashi Turnips lay on a stone surface.
Tokinashi Turnips arranged in rows in a Japanese wooden box on a white background.
A man in tunic holding some freshly harvested Tokinashi Turnips.
A large Tokinashi Turnip in a wooden box with smaller turnips and Japanese props beside it.
Two wooden boxes holding Tokinashi Turnips with a sliced turnip beside them on a grey background.
A bunch of Tokinashi Turnips lay on a stone surface.

Turnip Seeds,
Tokinashi

540 ReviewsSKU: #TN121Min. seed count: 300
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Description

(Brassica rapa). This white turnip is a traditional vegetable of Japan and listed among the illustrious group of Dento Yasai, or traditional cultural vegetables of Japan. The father of forest gardening, Masanobu Fukuoka, grew this variety as a wild understory crop. With a reluctance to bolt or become pithy, this popular type has an incredible sweet taste and rich flavor. The roots are nice and smooth with crisp, white flesh of excellent quality. Can be planted in early spring or late summer, into fall, and enjoyed all year long! The crunchy, juicy roots are enjoyed fresh or pickled. The delicious greens provide a healthy dose of vitamin C and are among the best tasting of cooked greens.

Growing Tips: Tokinashi turnips thrive in cool weather and should be grown in well-drained, loamy soil rich in organic matter. For optimal growth, plant them in an area that receives full sun, although they can tolerate partial shade. Consistent watering is essential to prevent the roots from becoming tough or bitter. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and control weeds.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Brassica rapa
Life Cycle
Biennial
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
4–7
Days to Maturity
50
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
5 in.
Ideal Temperature
45–85°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

Tokinashi turnips are best planted in early spring or late summer. For a spring crop, sow the seeds about 2-3 weeks before the last frost date in your area. For a fall harvest, plant them in late summer, about 8-10 weeks before the first expected frost. The cooler temperatures in fall enhance their sweetness, especially after a light frost​. If you’re not sure how to find your area's first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds directly into the garden about 1/4 inch deep, spacing them 1 inch apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart. Once the seedlings reach 4 inches in height, thin them to about 5 inches apart to ensure the roots have enough space to develop. Keep the soil consistently moist during the germination period, which typically takes 7-10 days. To protect seedlings from pests, consider using floating row covers​. Companion planting with radishes can also help deter some pests​.

How to Grow

Tokinashi turnips are relatively easy to grow and mature quickly, usually within 50 days. They prefer consistently moist soil, so water them regularly, providing about 1 inch of water per week. Overhead watering should be avoided to prevent fungal issues on the foliage. These turnips benefit from a balanced fertilizer application but avoid excessive nitrogen as it can lead to more leafy growth at the expense of the root​.

How to Save Seeds

To save seeds, allow the plants to flower and set seed. Once the seed pods have dried, harvest and store the seeds in a cool, dry place. Ensure that no other Brassica species are flowering nearby to prevent cross-pollination.

FAQ

Can Tokinashi turnips be grown in containers?

Yes, they can be grown in containers that are at least 8-12 inches deep. Ensure the container has good drainage and use a nutrient-rich, well-draining soil mix. Water regularly to keep the soil moist.

What are common pests for Tokinashi turnips, and how can I manage them?

Common pests include flea beetles, aphids, and cabbage root maggots. Using row covers can protect young plants, and applying diatomaceous earth around the base of the plants can help deter root maggots. Crop rotation is also recommended to prevent soil-borne diseases.

How do I prevent Tokinashi turnips from becoming woody?

Ensure that the plants are consistently watered, especially during dry periods. Harvest the turnips when they are small to medium in size, as larger roots can become woody, particularly if left in the ground too long.

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