Long White

Radish

55d to harvest

Crisp and luminous, Long White winter radish delivers a clean, cool snap with a gently peppery edge that mellows beautifully as the roots mature. The long, slender white roots hold a smooth, firm texture and stay attractive in the garden, making them as satisfying to grow as they are to savor. Ideal for roasting until tender, grating into bright winter slaws, and pickling for a crisp, tangy bite.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 13a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	—
Climate	Frost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Oct 1st
Harvest Begins	Nov 25th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	55
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Taproot
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	50
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	28
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease problem commonly affects Raphanus sativus (radish) and how do I control it?

A frequent issue is flea beetle damage, which causes small shot-hole holes in radish leaves and can stunt growth. Use floating row cover from sowing until the plants are established, then remove to allow pollinator access if needed; for heavy pressure, apply an approved insecticidal soap and reapply per label after rain. If you see leaf yellowing and downy/moldy growth, remove badly affected leaves and avoid wetting foliage to reduce spread.

How often should I water Raphanus sativus during the main growing phase?

During bulbing (roughly weeks 3–6), keep the soil consistently evenly moist—about 1 inch of water per week total, adjusted for rainfall and container size. Water lightly but more frequently during hot spells so the soil doesn’t dry out; irregular moisture is a common cause of pithy or woody radishes. Check by feel: the top 1 inch should stay damp, not soggy.

How can I tell when long radish (Raphanus sativus) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the roots reach the expected size and feel firm—usually around 55 days from sowing, but check early by gently pulling one plant. The skin should look smooth and the top of the root should be well-formed; if it’s still narrow or soft, give it a few more days. Don’t wait too long, because prolonged time in the ground can lead to tough texture and a stronger, more pungent bite.