Seed tape radish perennial Lada, 5m

Raphanus sativus - Lada

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 which has a beneficial effect on digestion. Radishes contain large amounts of vitamin C and folic acid. They also contain calcium, sulfur, carotene, potassium and vitamin B. Radishes have antibacterial properties, destroy fungi in the intestines, mucous membranes and stomach, lower cholesterol, loosen mucus during coughing, eliminate constipation and work against flatulence. 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, while for summer growing, rather shaded ones. Water radishes both morning and evening. To prevent bulbs from cracking, it is advisable to limit fluctuations in soil moisture through regular watering. During the growing season, remove weeds from radish beds and carefully hoe them.

• Spring sowing in beds is carried out as soon as the soil dries. 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 warm greenhouse or hotbed from February. In this case, sow in rows approximately 10 cm apart. After germination, thin out the plants as well.

• 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 organism. Do not fertilize 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 a 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.

  Irregular watering is associated with bulb cracking, which occurs 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 fly adults from laying eggs on radish root necks. For chemical protection, Sumithion Super is suitable. Regular watering also prevents attack by flea beetles, which nibble on leaves.

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