Turnip Seeds,
Nagasaki Akari Kabu

This turnip variety is a cool-season crop, ideal for planting in either early spring or late summer. For spring planting, sow the seeds about 2-3 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. For a fall crop, plant in late summer, about 8-10 weeks before the first expected frost. If you’re in a region with mild winters, fall planting is ideal as the cooler temperatures can enhance the sweetness of the roots. 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.'

Directly sow the seeds into the garden 1/4 inch deep, with a spacing of 1-2 inches between seeds in rows that are 12-18 inches apart. Once the seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them to about 5 inches apart to allow the roots to develop properly. The soil should be kept consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 7-10 days. To improve germination and protect young seedlings from pests, use floating row covers​.

Nagasaki Akari Kabu turnips don’t require a lot of maintenance once established. Ensure that the soil remains loose, well-drained, and consistently moist. Watering should be done at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal issues. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and prevent weeds. These turnips mature quickly, usually within 50 days, making them a great choice for both spring and fall gardens.

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.