Field guide
How to grow radishes: planting, care, and harvest guide
Radishes typically reaches first harvest in 22–35 days. This guide covers when to plant by USDA zone, common pests, harvest cues, and companion plants where relevant.
Open plannerWhen to plant radishes by USDA zone group
- USDA Zones 1–4 — May to June
- USDA Zones 5–6 — April to May
- USDA Zones 7–8 — March to April
- USDA Zones 9–10 — February to March
- USDA Zones 11–13 — October to February
Companion plants
Good companions: Lettuce, Peas, beans, Carrots
Avoid planting with: hyssop
Harvest
When to pick
- Shoulders of the root push above soil surface
- Root is about 1 inch in diameter (for standard varieties)
- Don't let them get too big — they turn woody and pithy
How: Pull straight up by the base of the greens. If tight in soil, loosen with a trowel first.
Storage: Remove greens, store roots in a bag in the fridge. Lasts 1-2 weeks. Greens are also edible — use within a few days.
Common pests and problems
Flea Beetles
Signs: Tiny round holes in leaves
Control: Row covers, neem oil. Radishes grow so fast they usually outrun damage.
Root Maggots
Signs: Tunnels in roots, wilting plants despite adequate water
Control: Floating row covers from seeding. Rotate crops. Apply beneficial nematodes to soil.
About this field guide
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