Grow More Radishes
Radishes Card

Sun: Plant in full sun (6 to 8 hours). Space 1 inch apart within rows or 5 to 6 plants per 2- to 3-gallon container. Plant from February through March and September through mid-October.

Soil: Amend with organic matter to create a well-drained soil. Avoid planting in unamended sandy or heavy clay soils. If the soil test shows pH is below 6.2, apply lime in October or November as recommended.

For proper drainage in a container garden, use potting mix and ensure containers have drainage holes. Alternatively, consider using self-watering containers.

Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not saturated. Apply 1 to 2 inches of water each week. Avoid wetting leaves to prevent fungal disease. Mulch helps retain moisture.

Plant: Direct sow seeds 1⁄2 inch deep. When sprouts are established, thin to 1 inch apart.

Fertilize: In the absence of a soil test, apply an all-purpose fertilizer (8-8-8 or 10-10-10) at planting, according to label directions.

Insects/Diseases/Weeds: Scout plants frequently for insect/disease damage. Use insecticidal soap (for soft-bodied insects) or Bt dust or spray (for caterpillars, or worms). Spray fungicide regularly to suppress common fungal diseases. Always follow label instructions. Mulch inhibits weeds and diseases.

Harvest: Harvest at 25 to 30 days, when roots are 1 to 1 1⁄2 inches in diameter. Harvest time varies depending on the variety.

Other: Radishes are one of the easiest vegetables to grow. They do best in cool weather and need plenty of moisture. Succession plantings every 1 to 2 weeks increase harvest. Hot weather and overmaturity lead to a spicy, bitter taste.

Visit www.aces.edu/go/growmore for more information.

 

Learn how to grow the best fruits and vegetables with the Grow More Garden Series at www.aces.edu/go/growmore.

 

Bethany O’Rear, Regional Extension Agent, Home Grounds, Gardens, and Home Pests, Auburn University

New August 2022, Grow More Radishes, ANR-2876-Q

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