Overview
One of the easiest and quickest root vegetables to grow, radishes come in a rainbow of colors and add a mildly spicy flavor to fresh salads. Since radishes can be harvested as soon as three weeks after planting, they can be planted multiple times in a growing season. Radishes are a good source of vitamin C.
Conditions
For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. Radishes are adversely affected by hot, dry weather. For best quality crop, provide full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day) and consistent moisture (don’t let the topsoil become dry to the touch).
Planting
Plant radishes directly in your garden beginning in early spring. Use our grow calendar tool to find specific planting dates for your region! Seeds germinate quickly in 4-6 days. Plant seeds in 3” wide bands, with approximately 1” between each. Thin to 2-3” between plants, or closer to 3-6” for larger varieties.
Care
Keep plants well-watered during the growing season, as drought can halt growth and cause roots to taste bitter.
Pests and Disease
Use floating row covers at time of planting to control flea beetles and cabbage root maggots.
Harvest
Harvest promptly to avoid pithiness, beginning at about 3-4 weeks when roots are the size of a large marble. Push back soil slightly to check root size before harvest.
