Radish

Raphanus sativus · Vegetable

The fastest crop most gardeners will grow: some varieties are ready in under a month. Radishes prefer cool weather and steady moisture. Sow small batches every couple of weeks for a constant supply.

💧WaterKeep evenly moist, 2–3 times a week (estimated)

☀️LightFull sun

🐾PetsNot toxic

Care at a glance

Light: Full sun; tolerates light shade
Water: About 1 in per week, kept evenly moist
Soil: Loose, stone-free, pH 6.0–7.0
Temperature: Best 50–65 °F; bolts in heat
Spacing: 1–2 in apart, rows 8–12 in
Container: At least 6 in deep, any width
Harvest: 22–30 days from sowing (estimated)
Lifespan: Annual

When?

Sow outdoors from 4 weeks before the last frost until early summer, then again from late summer into autumn. Skip the hottest months (estimated).

Step by step

Loosen the soil 6 in deep and remove stones.
Sow seeds 1/2 in deep and 1 in apart.
Keep the surface moist; seedlings appear in 3–7 days.
Thin to 2 in apart as soon as seedlings are up.
Water evenly; dry spells make roots woody and hot.
Sow a new short row every 10–14 days.
Pull as soon as roots reach full size; left too long they turn pithy.

Common problems

Tiny holes in leavesFlea beetles; cover rows with fine mesh after sowing.

All leaves, no bulbCrowding or too much shade; thin earlier and give more sun.

Cracked or woody rootsUneven watering or late harvest; water steadily, pick on time.

Plants send up flower stalksHeat or long days; sow in cooler months.

Pets

Not listed as toxic to cats or dogs. If in doubt, ask your vet.

Similar plants

Lettuce Carrot Spinach

Sources

ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants

This page is general guidance; no pesticide doses are given.