SproutSmart
SproutSmart Intelligent Garden Sowing

Madras

Radish

Planting Schedule

Add Madras to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Madras
45d to harvest

Madras Rat-Tail Radish unfurls into a feast of flavor and texture—crisp, peppery pods that feel lively and fresh, with a snap that carries from garden to platter. At maturity, the slender, elongated seed pods hold a bright, spicy bite ideal for pickling, quick roasting, and bold garnishes, while the developing roots add a clean, radish-sharp note for fresh use. Grow it for its dual-purpose charm: ornamental, productive, and irresistibly pungent from first harvest to the last tender pod.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 12a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
MilestoneDate
Start Indoors
ClimateFrost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsOct 1st
Harvest BeginsNov 15th
Harvest EndsFeb 28th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity45
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitTaproot
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)50
Min Soil Temp (°F)40
Min Night Temp (°F)28
Harden Off (days)Not Required

Frequently Asked Questions


How often should I water Madras rattail radish during its main growing phase to prevent problems?
Keep the soil evenly moist for best growth—aim for about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week, split into smaller waterings during hot spells. During the 3–5 weeks before harvest (when leaves and seed pods/roots are developing), don’t let the soil dry out completely because it can lead to tough, uneven growth. Check moisture by pressing a finger into the soil; water when the top 1 inch feels dry.
How can I tell when Madras rattail radish is ready to harvest?
Harvest around 45 days from sowing when the seed pods/elongating edible parts are well-formed and reach their expected length for your planting. The pods should feel firm and look fully developed, not shriveled or paper-thin; taste one—if it’s crisp and tender rather than stringy, it’s ready. If you wait too long, pods can become tougher as they mature.
Botanical illustration of Madras

Madras Rat-Tail Radish unfurls into a feast of flavor and texture—crisp, peppery pods that feel lively and fresh, with a snap that carries from garden to platter. At maturity, the slender, elongated seed pods hold a bright, spicy bite ideal for pickling, quick roasting, and bold garnishes, while the developing roots add a clean, radish-sharp note for fresh use. Grow it for its dual-purpose charm: ornamental, productive, and irresistibly pungent from first harvest to the last tender pod.