For fans of hearty cuisine, it is always worth growing radishes in your own garden. The root vegetable tastes fresh and crunchy, gives salads a pleasant spiciness and is a good accompaniment to beer, not only in Bavaria.

When to plant radish

The planting time depends on whether you want to grow summer or winter radishes. Summer radishes are sown very early in the year, some varieties as early as February. At cold temperatures, sowing can be done first under foil or fleece or in the cold frame.

It is possible to prefer the plants in the greenhouse or on the windowsill of a bright and cool room. The seedlings are planted outdoors after 10-14 days. The winter radishes for the autumn harvest are sown directly outdoors from June. Late varieties can be sown until September.

How is radish sown?

The seeds are scattered in 2-3 cm deep furrows, whereby the row and seed spacing can be between 15 and 40 cm, depending on the variety. Since the different types of radishes differ mainly in shape and size, the information on the seed bag must be observed when sowing. In the case of particularly large cultivations, it is important that the soil is well loosened at the appropriate depth so that the fruits can grow unhindered and the tubers do not deform.

What location and soil does radish need?

A sunny location with nutrient-rich soil that was fertilized for pre-planting is particularly suitable for growing radish. The soil should not be too loose so that it can be kept evenly moist. Regular watering during rearing and maturing is important so that the tubers do not burst and the fruit does not become furry.

When it comes to fresh organic fertilization, the following applies to the cultivation of radishes: less is more. Otherwise the radish will react with increased pest and disease infestation. Nitrogen should also be used sparingly. Radish thrives alongside tomatoes, beans, carrots, spinach, and parsley. Planting next to other cruciferous plants and cucumbers should be avoided.

When can you harvest radishes?

The harvest time also depends on which variety you have chosen. Summer radishes are ready to harvest about 8-10 weeks after sowing and should be harvested and eaten gradually within two to three weeks. The winter radishes need about 13-15 weeks to ripen. If possible, they should mature on the bed by the first frost. As a rule, winter varieties are storable and can be kept in a cool place in boxes with sand.

tips and tricks

Radish is traditionally eaten raw in salads. Try it as an Asian stir-fry or prepare a cough syrup from black radish.

Category:

Vegetable garden