Radish for forcing Flamboyant 2

Raphanus sativus - Flamboyant 2

Radish is a root vegetable originating from Japan. It is characterized by its distinctive taste and is undemanding to grow. Its piquant flavor comes from mustard oil. Radishes contain large amounts of vitamin C and folic acid. They also contain calcium, sulfur, 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 sowing, rather shaded ones. Water radishes in the morning and evening. To prevent the bulbs from cracking, it is advisable to limit fluctuations in soil moisture through watering. During vegetation, remove weeds from radish beds 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 germination and formation of cotyledon leaves, thin out to 3-4 cm.

  Radishes can be pre-grown in a heated greenhouse or hotbed from February. In this case, sow in rows approximately 10 cm apart. Also thin out the plants after germination.

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

• Do not fertilize radishes with farmyard manure. They would accumulate nitrates, which are dangerous for the human body. Do not fertilize radishes during vegetation. It is advisable to include them as a pre-crop.

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

  Irregular watering is associated with cracking of bulbs, which develops, for example, during rains after a long period of drought.

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

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