Radish
Raphanus sativus
A fast, hardy root crop for UK gardens, best grown in cool weather for crisp roots with a clean peppery bite. Sow little and often in open ground or a deep container, keep the soil evenly moist, and pull roots promptly before they get woody.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Radish
Planting Calendar
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Sow Seeds
every 2 weeksSow seeds thinly in shallow drills around and cover with a light layer of fine soil. Sow a fresh batch every 14 days for a steady supply, and keep the drills evenly watered after sowing.
Thin Seedlings
When the seedlings are large enough to handle, from , thin them to leave the strongest plants apart. Snip surplus seedlings at soil level so you don't disturb the roots you want to keep.
Water Regularly
From until , water little and often so the soil stays evenly moist. Dry soil makes roots hot, woody and quick to bolt, especially in warm spells.
Harvest Roots
Lift roots as soon as they reach a usable size, from through . Don't leave them in the ground too long, or they'll become pithy and tough. Pick them promptly and re-sow a fresh row to keep the crop coming.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Radish.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Radish to consider
French Breakfast 3
Long, red roots with a white tip and a mild flavour. Good for quick summer cropping in open ground or containers.
Sparkler 3
Round, red-and-white roots that stay crisp if picked small. A dependable choice for mixed sowings.
Cherry Belle
Small, round scarlet roots with quick maturity and reliable shape. Suits early and succession sowings.
Icicle
A white, elongated radish with a clean flavour and fast growth. Best picked young for the best texture.
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