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Radish

Raphanus sativus

Vegetable

Radishes are among the fastest-maturing vegetables in the garden, ready to harvest in as little as 3 weeks. They make excellent companion plants and soil looseners, and their flowers attract beneficial insects.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Moderate

Soil

Loose, well-draining loam; pH 6.0–7.0

Spacing

2 inches after thinning

Days to Maturity

22–30 days (small varieties); 50–70 days (daikon)

Growing Zones

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

Thrives in USDA Zones 2–10

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Keep Away From

When to Plant

  • Direct Sow

    4–6 weeks before last frost; succession sow every 2 weeks

  • Harvest

    22–70 days; harvest promptly or roots become pithy

Organic Growing Tips

  • Sow radishes between slower crops as a space-filler and quick harvest while main crops develop.

  • Leave a few radishes to flower and set seed — they become excellent pollinator attractors.

  • Use radishes as a trap crop for flea beetles, protecting nearby brassicas.

  • Cover with row fabric to exclude root maggot flies during peak emergence in spring.

Common Pests

  • Flea Beetle
  • Root Maggot
  • Aphids
  • Cabbage White Caterpillar

All pest management in Garden uses safe, organic, non-toxic methods only. No synthetic pesticides, ever.