The first time I grew radishes, I thought I was a gardener extraordinaire.
After planting seeds I had purchased online and waiting about a month, I was harvesting such perfect radishes that I was patting myself on the back for a job well done.
Little did I know at the time, they are one of the easiest veggies to grow in your garden.
We love to add radishes to salads, salsas, and they make the perfect option as a pickled side.
In this Radish Lover’s Guide to Growing Radishes, we’ll walk you through the steps needed to grow and harvest your very own radish plants.
By following our guide, you too will be patting yourself on the back for a job well done!
Choosing the Right Location to Grow Radish
Choosing the ideal time and location for planting radishes is the first step if you’re prepared to add some to your garden.
As a cool-season crop, radishes should be planted in the early spring or late fall when the weather is still cool. You can look up your USDA hardiness zone to get a better idea of the ideal time to plant yours.
By doing this, you can make sure the roots have enough time to develop before it gets too warm.
The majority of radishes enjoy full light and well-drained soil when it comes to planting conditions. Consider adding some compost or other organic material to your soil if it is extremely heavy or clay-like to help with drainage.
Radishes need at least two inches apart to allow for enough growth. My first year planting them, I simply scattered the seeds and thinned them out as they grew. This method worked so well, I still use it today.
A French Breakfast variety of radish.
A Cherry Belle variety of radish.
Radish Varieties
There are so many different types of radishes to choose from and it is always fun to experiment when growing.
The most common type of radish is the round red radish that we all know and love but there are also varieties that come in a kaleidoscope of colors including yellow, white, or black.
Depending on your climate and soil type, some varieties may perform better than others.
Some of the most popular varieties include:
Cherry Belle: (round, small to medium-sized, mild flavor, and ready to harvest in 21-30 days)
Sparkler: (long, thin, mildly spicy flavor, ready to harvest in 21-30 days)
White Icicle: (long, white, mild flavor, ready to harvest in 28-35 days)
French Breakfast :(elongated, red and white stripes, mild flavor, ready to harvest in 30-45 days)
Black Spanish: (round, black skin, spicy flavor, ready to harvest in 55-70 days).
No matter which variety you choose, make sure you select a type that is well suited for your climate and soil type.
If you’re unsure which variety to plant, talk to your local nursery or agricultural extension office for advice.
You can always drop us a line as well. We would be so happy to help you!
Sow Your Radish Seeds
Sowing radish seeds is a relatively easy process. Because radish seeds grow best in cooler temperatures, they are one of the earliest vegetables we plant.
You may plant radishes as soon as the soil temperature has warmed up in early springtime.
This could be anywhere from late February to early May, depending on your planting zone. We live in zone 7b and follow our planting calendar.
Although many will advise against transplanting seedlings, we have found a lot of success winter sowing our radish seeds. I have planted seeds in early January and transplanted seeds by April 1st with great success.
Whichever method you choose, it’s important to note that radishes like loose well-draining soil that is properly amended with organic compost.
If you are planting in containers be sure to use a quality-organic potting soil such as FoxFarm soil. Potting soil can be reused season after season. Amend it properly with organic matter when reusing and it will pay you back in dividends.
When planting radish in the ground, make sure the soil is properly tilled and amended before planting. We like to add manure (free from local farms, just ask), compost, as well as organic fertilizer such as Dr. Earth before planting.
Once you have taken care of the soil, you can begin sowing the seeds.
For those planting in containers, simply sow the seeds directly onto the soil and cover them lightly. I often spread the seeds on top and lightly mix them by hand.
When planting them directly in the ground, you will want to create a small trench, about one inch deep. Sow the seeds about two inches apart, in rows that are 12-18 inches apart. Make sure to keep the rows evenly spaced, as this will make harvesting much easier.
You can sow the seeds in clusters or scattered throughout the garden for a more varied look.
After you have finished planting, cover the rows lightly with a layer of mulch or compost to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Water your seeds thoroughly and regularly to keep the soil moist until the radishes sprout.
Thin Out the Seedlings-Don't Overcrowd Radish
You will need to thin your radish plants about a week after they have started to grow.
To thin, simply cut the plant with a pair of clean scissors or gently pull the plant keeping the roots in tact to relocate to another growing areas.
The seedling itself is edible and makes a great addition to salads or sprinkled over a cream cheese bagel.
I like to leave a space of two inches between my plants.
Thinned-out radishes should be ready for harvest in around 25-35 days depending on the variety. For the best estimate of maturity, be sure to read the seed packet.
As they get close to maturity, check them frequently for any signs of pest damage or disease.
Keep Them Radishes Watered-They're Thirsty!
Because radishes we tend to grow radish in the early spring or early fall, mother nature tends to take care of our plants with rain. However, it is a good idea to keep an eye on your seedlings in the event of mother nature not cooperating.
Radish like their soil to be moist but not soggy.
Aim to water them at least once or twice a week. Make sure to water deeply and evenly, so the entire root system gets soaked.
You can also set up a drip irrigation system that attaches to a rain barrel or hose spigot make sure your radishes get the water they need without wasting any.
Radishes that are grown in containers tend to dry out quickly as the temperatures warm up. It’s important to water them often to prevent them from drying out.
Check the soil before watering to make sure it is dry; if the top inch or two is dry, it is time to water. You can also use a water meter to check the moisture levels in your soil.
Fertilize Those Red Balls of Deliciousness
Fertilizing radish is recommended throughout the growing season. Because radish grow relatively quickly, you do not have to fertilize as often as other crops.
Ensure you start your seeds in well amended soil rich in organic matter. As the radish grow, apply fertilizer in an as needed basis. Read the packaging on your fertilizer for proper dosage amounts.
Make sure to spread it evenly around the plants and avoid getting any on the foliage, as this can cause burning. Additionally, water the area immediately after applying the fertilizer, to help it get absorbed into the soil.
Harvesting Your Homegrown Radishes
You have babied your radish and they have grown well. It’s time for the most exciting part, harvesting!
Radishes are ready to be harvested about three weeks after sowing, so check the plants often for signs of readiness. You will see the bulb of the plant protruding from the top.
When the root is around two inches in diameter, it is usually ready to be harvested. To do this, grab the stem and pull the plant up and out of the ground. The best time to harvest them is in the morning when the soil is still cool and moist.
If left in the ground too long, the roots can become woody and lose their flavor, so it’s important to keep a close eye on them. Once you’ve pulled them from the ground, brush off any remaining dirt and wash off with water if needed. Then trim off the leaves and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Growing radishes can be a great addition to your garden. Whether you’re growing them as a spring harvest or as a mid-summer snack, they are an easy and rewarding vegetable to grow.
Radishes are not demanding when it comes to soil, water, and light, so they are perfect for beginner gardeners. With the right care, you’ll be harvesting crisp, spicy, and delicious radishes in no time. Enjoy!
