Radishes are a staple in many backyard gardens. They are easy to grow, mature quickly, and take up little space. Originally from China, radishes are in the same vegetable family as cabbage, kale, broccoli, and collards.
With the ability to survive light frosts, radishes will thrive in cooler temperatures during spring and fall. They require:
Soil that drains well
Ample water
Full to partial sun
Planting: Plant radish seeds in the fall from August until mid-September and in the spring, mid-February to early April. Plant 1⁄2-inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart.
Harvest: Late September until the first frost and early April to early June. Radishes are ready to harvest when you can see their rounded tops peeking through the soil. Radishes mature very quickly and are usually ready to harvest within four to six weeks after planting.
Varieties:
Easter Egg (mix of red, purple, and white, round roots)
Cherry Belle (red round roots, 3⁄4-inch wide)
Sparkler (round roots, 1 inch wide, red on top and white on the bottom with speckles in between)
Tips: Radishes make great container vegetables.
If you have questions about growing radishes or need more information, contact Bryan Hartman at bkhartman@ncat.edu or (336) 593-8179.