Growing radishes is the closest you can come to “instant gratification” in gardening. Radishes sprout easily, grow quickly, and are a perfect first seed to grow for new or young gardeners. Although they are easy to grow, there are a few things to keep in mind to grow radishes well. These 10 tips for growing radishes will teach you what you need to know to be a radish-growing pro!

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10 tips for growing Radishes

1. Radishes are a cool season crop
Radishes grow best in cool weather (less than 65 degrees). Warm weather causes them to bolt and become bitter.
In the low desert of Arizona plant radishes beginning September 15 through March. Keep an eye on weather conditions and if it is unseasonably warm, wait to plant until temperatures drop.

2. Radishes prefer loose soil rich in organic matter
Soil that is too high in nitrogen will produce an abundance of leaves, but no radishes. Rotate where you plant radishes. If you have grown brassicas in an area, it is best to wait 3 years before planting radishes in the same spot to prevent root maggots.

3. Try different types of radishes
- Cherry Belle radishes are one of the easiest to grow and perfect for a first-time gardener.
- Watermelon radishes are larger than regular radishes with a pale green exterior and a deep pink interior (thus the name).
- White Icicle radishes develop white roots up to 5 inches long.
- Rat’s Tail radishes are grown for the edible bean-like seed pods they produce.

4. Space radishes correctly
Plant radishes 3 inches apart and ½ inch deep, and cover seeds loosley with soil. Consider using seed tape for proper spacing of radishes. Crowded radishes do not grow well and may not develop a radish, but be thin and shriveled.
If using square foot gardening, plant 16 radishes per square foot.

5. Radishes need even moisture and plenty of sunlight
Regular watering is important when growing radishes. If radishes dry out, they can bolt. If radishes are too wet, they can split. Radishes need at least 6 hours of sunlight. Radish plants that do not get enough sunlight may not develop a radish, only leaves.

6. Interplant radishes among other slower-growing plants
Because radishes grow so quickly, they can be planted around other slower-growing vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and beets. The radishes have been harvested when the slower-growing crops require extra room. Look for empty spaces in your garden, and fill the spots with radishes.

7. Radishes are an excellent companion plant

Learn other tips for successful companion planting in this post.
8. Don’t wait to harvest radishes
Once a quarter size bulb forms on radishes, it’s time to harvest them. Small young radishes are mild and crisp. Radishes left in the ground too long become hot and pithy. Longer-type radishes are best harvested young as well. Push back soil to check size, or pull one to see if radishes are ready.

9. Picked radishes store well
Cut the greens of radishes, brush off dirt, and store in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Radishes can be kept this way for 1-3 weeks.

10. Eat radishes in a variety of ways
Sliced radishes are a delicious addition to salads, of course. Shred radishes and add them to slaw. Try chopped radishes in egg salad, potato salad, stir fry, and soups. Radishes are excellent fermented. If you haven’t tried fermenting before, pickled radishes are a great way to learn.

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Melissa
Thursday 8th of December 2022
I have a new bed I have prepared for spring 2023... Can I go ahead and plant radishes in it for a cover crop? Thanks Angela.
Angela Judd
Thursday 8th of December 2022
I haven't grown radishes as a cover crop, but I don't see why you can't. Now is a good time to plant in many areas.
Robin
Sunday 9th of October 2022
What should I use to combat pests eating my radish leaves?
Angela Judd
Thursday 13th of October 2022
It's probably flea beetles - they love radishes. You can try using insecticidal soap - but use it sparingly if at all. You could also try floating row cover. This blog post may be helpful: https://growinginthegarden.com/organic-pest-control-that-really-works/
Maria
Monday 12th of September 2022
How do you ferment radishes
Angela Judd
Tuesday 13th of September 2022
I use these lids: https://amzn.to/3QM8sjD and the recipe in the booklet
Martin
Friday 4th of October 2019
Radishes are good for the bladder, herbalists say. For a morning-after (like, 1 January :) eating a few is supposed to knock out the stomach problem, ease a headache and so on. Right now, October, is the best time to grow daikon and Black Schifferstadt in most of Arizona, both winter radishes, and make a good winter cover. Shifferstadt is called the poor man's horseradish, and for that reason are good against nematodes. And, I hope pill bugs.
Angela Judd
Saturday 5th of October 2019
Great to know. Thanks for sharing.