Caring for Radish

Radishes have a moderate water need and consistent moisture is the key to crisp, mild roots. Water regularly throughout the growing season, aiming to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. In dry spells, especially from May to August, water every two to three days. Irregular watering causes roots to split or become woody and hot-tasting. A light mulch of compost or well-rotted manure around the plants helps retain moisture and keeps the soil cool, which radishes appreciate. Feeding is not necessary for radishes. They grow so quickly that they draw sufficient nutrients from reasonably fertile soil, and additional nitrogen fertiliser encourages lush leaf growth rather than root development. If your soil is very poor, incorporate a general-purpose granular fertiliser or garden compost before sowing, but avoid fresh manure which can cause forked or hairy roots. Radishes are hardy and do not require overwintering care in the traditional sense, as they are sown and harvested within the same season. However, early spring sowings in March can be protected with fleece or cloches to speed germination and protect young seedlings from late frosts. The main pest to watch for is the flea beetle, which chews small round holes in the leaves, particularly in hot, dry weather. Keep plants well watered and consider covering rows with fine insect mesh immediately after sowing. Slugs can also damage young seedlings. Radishes are susceptible to clubroot, a soil-borne disease affecting all brassicas, so practice crop rotation and avoid growing radishes in the same spot more than once every three years.