did you know?

The ancient Egyptians cultivated radishes, which reportedly fed the thousands of slaves building the pyramids. Today, the radish is a staple in salads, sandwiches, and a variety of hors d'oeuvres. These easy-to-grow vegetables are now available in myriad shapes, colors, sizes, and flavors.

general maintenance:

Thin young plants to 2?3 inches. Cultivate soil to reduce weeds and provide aeration.

pests/diseases:

Flea beetles, cabbage root maggots, slugs, and clubroot may occur.

controls:

Healthy plants can tolerate a few flea beetle holes, but use fabric row covers to deter pests. Avoid watering in evening, which attracts slugs and snails. To prevent slugs, spread diatomaceous earth around plants, or set out shallow dishes filled with beer. Rotate crops annually to avoid clubroot.

how to sow/plant:

Amend soil with well-rotted manure or compost. Plant in spring, 3?4 weeks before last frost; direct sow, 1/2 inch deep and 1/2?1 inch apart, in rows spaced 9?12 inches apart. In fall, plant to harvest around first frost. Resow every 2 weeks for a continuous supply.

water and fertilize:

Maintain soil moisture all season.

garden hint:

Soil should be loose and free of rocks to a depth of 6?9 inches for well-grown, well-shaped root vegetables. Radishes are best grown quickly and watered regularly and evenly to prevent cracking.

features:

garden uses:

• Containers (grows well in containers)

other uses:

• Culinary/Edible

combine with:

any slower-growing vegetable or herb.