Radish is one of the most popular vegetable crops in Ukrainian gardens. It is appreciated for its early ripening, refreshing taste, and ease of cultivation. However, even such a seemingly simple crop has its own specifics regarding sowing times, soil types, and care. Untimely planting or improper watering can ruin the entire effort. In this article, Baltimore Chronicle’ll explore when and how to plant radishes properly to achieve a generous harvest.
When Is the Best Time to Plant Radishes: Timing and Conditions
Radish is a cold-tolerant crop that grows well at temperatures of +10…+18 °C. The optimal time for sowing is early spring, as soon as the soil warms to +5…+7 °C. In southern regions of Ukraine, this may be as early as late March, while in central and northern areas — early to mid-April.
In addition to spring sowing, radishes can be planted in summer or even before winter. Each option has its benefits:
– Spring planting yields early crops (May–June)
– Summer planting produces radishes in autumn (September)
– Winter sowing ensures very early sprouts in spring with minimal effort
To determine planting time, always consider the weather conditions, as radish doesn’t tolerate heat. In hot weather, the plant bolts, and the root either deforms or fails to form at all.
How to Prepare Soil for Radishes
Radishes prefer loose, light soils with neutral pH. Sandy loam or light loamy soils with good drainage work best. You should prepare the plot in autumn or at least two weeks before sowing:
- Clear the area of weeds
- Dig the soil to a depth of 20–25 cm
- Add compost or well-rotted manure (2–3 kg per m²)
- If needed, add wood ash or dolomite flour to neutralize acidity
Avoid using fresh manure, as it promotes pests and causes bitterness in the roots.
Crop rotation tips
Radishes grow well after crops like:
– Potatoes
– Cucumbers
– Tomatoes
– Onions
Avoid planting radishes after cruciferous plants (cabbage, mustard, turnip), as this increases the risk of disease.
Sowing Techniques: Depth, Spacing, and Density
Before sowing, you may soak radish seeds in warm water for a few hours to speed up germination. Sow seeds at a depth of 1–2 cm in moist soil. Recommended spacing:
– Between rows: 10–15 cm
– Between seeds in a row: 3–5 cm
To save space, try the band sowing method — two or three rows spaced 20 cm apart. After sowing, cover the seeds with soil and press gently.
Too dense planting leads to competition for light and water, causing small and misshapen roots. If needed, thin the seedlings 5–7 days after emergence.
Radish Care: Watering, Thinning, and Pest Control
Radishes require regular but moderate watering. A lack of moisture results in bitter, fibrous roots, while excess water can cause rotting. The optimal watering routine:
– Every 2–3 days in dry weather
– Daily during root formation, in small amounts
Thinning is essential if the sprouts are too dense. After 2–3 true leaves appear, keep the strongest plants about 4–5 cm apart.
Common Radish Pests
- Flea beetles (cruciferous flea)
- Cabbage flies
- Slugs
To prevent pest infestation:
– Use agro-fabric covers
– Dust the soil with wood ash or tobacco dust
– Plant radishes next to garlic, lettuce, or mint
Best Radish Varieties for Different Seasons
Choosing the right variety is key to a good harvest. Radish varieties differ by ripening period:
| Variety Name | Sowing Season | Maturity Period | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Breakfast | spring | 20–25 days | Juicy and sweet |
| Sora | spring-autumn | 21–25 days | Resistant to bolting |
| Duro | summer | 30–35 days | Large root crops |
| Zhara | spring | 18–22 days | Heat-tolerant |
| Red Giant | winter | 35–40 days | Keeps for up to 2 months |
Choose early varieties for spring, mid-season varieties for autumn, and cold-resistant types for winter sowing.
Common Mistakes in Growing Radishes
Even experienced gardeners make mistakes that significantly affect yield. Here are some of the most common:
– Planting too deep or too shallow
– Overwatering leading to root rot
– Sowing in overly hot weather
– Growing radishes in the same spot every year
– Using old or low-quality seeds
Follow agronomic recommendations and regularly inspect your beds to avoid problems.
How to Increase Radish Yield
There are several techniques to help you get the most out of even a small plot:
– Staggered sowing every 7–10 days
– Fertilizing with wood ash or potassium sulfate
– Mulching to retain moisture
– Using high-quality seeds from trusted suppliers
– Maintaining proper temperature (use shade if necessary)
Additionally, growing radishes in greenhouses or under film tunnels can extend the season by 2–3 months.
Radish is an excellent choice for gardeners who want a fast and tasty crop in spring. The key is to choose the right sowing time, prepare the soil properly, and care for the plants consistently. By avoiding common mistakes and using quality seeds, you’re sure to enjoy crunchy, flavorful roots.
Earlier we wrote about when to plant strawberries in spring for a bountiful harvest.