Radishes are a quick-growing, cool-season crop that can be grown in spring and fall. They�re perfect for beginner gardeners. Here�s a guide to growing radishes organically.
Materials Needed
- Radish seeds
- Rich, well-draining soil
- Compost
- Watering can or hose
Variety Selection
Choose from various radish types:
- Cherry Belle: Round, red roots with a mild flavor.
- French Breakfast: Oblong, red and white roots, crisp texture.
- Daikon: Long, white roots, mild taste.
Soil Preparation
Radishes prefer fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0:
- Tilling: Loosen soil to a depth of 8-10 inches (20-25 cm).
- Composting: Add 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) of compost.
Planting Radish Seeds
Sow seeds directly in the garden:
- Spacing: Plant seeds 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) deep, 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
- Rows: Space rows 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart.
Watering and Mulching
Keep the soil evenly moist:
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Organic Fertilizing
Radishes benefit from organic feeding:
- Use compost tea or a balanced organic fertilizer every 3-4 weeks.
Harvesting Radishes
Harvest radishes when they reach desired size:
- Method: Gently pull roots from the soil.
Storing Radishes
Radishes are best used fresh but can be stored for short periods:
- In the Fridge: Store in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer. Use within a week.
Growing Tips
- Sow seeds every 2-3 weeks for a continuous harvest.
- Rotate crops annually to prevent disease.
