Radishes
The speed demons of the vegetable patch, radishes offer a quick, peppery crunch. Perfect for succession planting, they can be harvested in just a few weeks, making them ideal for impatient gardeners.
Radishes seeds
£1.49 in the shop
Calendar
Sow
March – September, direct outdoors every 2-3 weeks for a continuous supply
Plant out
Not typically transplanted; thin seedlings as required
Harvest
April – October, usually 3-6 weeks after sowing
Conditions
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Crucial for good development; keep consistently moist to prevent woodiness and bolting
Soil
Light, fertile, well-drained soil, pH 6.0–7.0
Spacing
2-3cm between plants, 15cm between rows
Containers
Excellent for pots and window boxes, especially smaller varieties
Indoors
Not typically grown indoors, but can be successful in cool conditions
Care and harvest
Feeding
Generally not needed in fertile soil. Avoid excess nitrogen.
Pruning
None required
Harvesting
Pull up when roots are small and tender (size of a large marble). Don't leave too long or they become hot and woody.
Storage
Best eaten fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for a few days in an airtight container
Good companions: Lettuce, Carrots, Peas