For fans of hearty cuisine, it is always worth growing radishes in your own garden. The root vegetables taste fresh and crunchy, give salads a pleasant spiciness and are a good accompaniment to beer, not only in Bavaria.
When and how to plant radish in the garden?
Radish is planted at different times depending on the variety: summer radishes are sown from February, often under foil or in a cold frame, while winter radishes are sown directly outdoors from June. The harvest takes place 8-10 weeks (summer radish) or13-15 weeks (winter radish) after sowing.
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. In cold temperatures, sowing can initially be done under foil or fleece or in a cold frame.
It is possible to grow the plants in the greenhouse (€46.00 on Amazon) 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. The late varieties can be sown until September.
How to sow radish?
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 radish differ primarily in shape and size, it is important to follow the information on the seed bag when sowing. For particularly large cultivations, it is important that the soil is loosened well to the appropriate depth so that the fruits can grow unhindered and the tubers do not deform.
What location and soil does radish need?
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 cultivation and maturation is important so that the tubers do not burst and the fruit does not become furry.
When it comes to fresh organic fertilization when growing radishes, less is more. Otherwise the radish will react with increased pest and disease infestation. You should also use nitrogen sparingly. Radish grows well next to tomatoes, beans, carrots, spinach and parsley. Planting next to other cruciferous plants and cucumbers should be avoided.
When can you harvest radish?
The harvest time also depends on which variety you have chosen. The summer radishes are ready to harvest around 8-10 weeks after sowing and should be harvested and consumed successively within two-three weeks. The winter radishes take around 13-15 weeks to mature. If possible, they should mature on the bed until the first frost. The winter varieties are usually storable and can be stored in boxes with sand in a cool place.
Tips & Tricks
Radish is traditionally eaten raw in salads. Try it as an Asian wok vegetable or prepare a cough syrup from black radish.