Red Radish SAXA 2

Raphanus sativus

Radish is a root vegetable originating from Japan. It is characterised by its distinctive taste and is undemanding to grow. Its piquant flavour comes from mustard oil. Radishes contain large amounts of vitamin C and folic acid. They also contain calcium, sulphur, carotene, potassium and vitamin B. Moreover, they are suitable for diets because they contain minimal fat. They are very popular in the kitchen. They are best when consumed fresh, for example in salads or spreads.

How to Grow Radishes

• For early sowing in open ground, it is advisable to choose sunny locations; for summer growing, rather shaded ones. Water radishes morning and evening. To prevent the roots from cracking, it is advisable to limit fluctuations in soil moisture through regular watering. During the growing season, keep the radish beds free of weeds and hoe them carefully.

• Spring sowing in beds is carried out as soon as the soil dries out. Sow in rows 15-20 cm apart and to a depth of 1 cm. After emergence and formation of cotyledon leaves, thin out to 3-4 cm apart.

  Radishes can be pre-grown in a warm greenhouse or cold frame from February. In this case, sow in rows approximately 10 cm apart. After emergence, thin out the plants as well.

• For growing radishes, well-drained, light to medium-heavy, deeply worked soil that is rich in humus and has sufficient soil moisture is suitable.

• Do not fertilise radishes with farmyard manure. They would accumulate nitrates, which are dangerous to the human body. Do not fertilise radishes during the growing season. It is advisable to use them as a pre-crop.

• In overcrowded sowings, there is a risk of attack by the fungal disease of seedling necks known as damping-off. The affected neck turns brown and the seedlings die. Make sparse sowings and maintain only moderate moisture.

  Cracking of the bulbs is associated with irregular watering, which develops for example during rainfall after a long period of drought.

  Root flies, whose larvae form tunnels in the root heads, are a significant pest of radishes. Non-woven fabric will prevent root flies from laying eggs on the root necks of radishes. For chemical control, it is advisable to use Sumithion Super. Regular watering also prevents attack by flea beetles, which nibble the leaves.

• Harvest radishes as needed when they are ripe. Ripeness can be recognised by the size of the bulb.