SproutSmart
SproutSmart™ Intelligent Garden Sowing

Black Radish

Radish
Zone 1a Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add Black Radish to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Black Radish
60d to harvest

Sink your senses into Black Radish’s dramatic, inky skin and crisp, white interior—cool, peppery, and boldly aromatic with a clean snap. At maturity in about 60 days, roots develop a smooth, nearly black exterior that peels away to reveal a firm, juicy texture prized for its sharp bite. Ideal for fresh slicing, bold winter-style roasts, and tangy pickles, this is a striking garden-to-plate variety that brings depth to salads and relish with every harvest.

Crop Dates

Growing note: Zone 1a has only 30 frost-free days — shorter than this crop's 60-day maturity. Outdoor planting is not viable; use protected cultivation.
MilestoneDate
Last FrostJun 15th
Growing ApproachProtected Environment Only

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity60
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

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Black Radish in Zone 1a typically begins around Indoor Lights Only. Wait until soil reaches at least 40°F before transplanting Black Radish.

Garden Alerts

Zone 1a has only 30 frost-free days — shorter than this crop's 60-day maturity. Outdoor planting is not viable; use protected cultivation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I fix black radish root problems from clubroot (caused by Plasmodiophora)?
Clubroot shows as swollen, distorted roots and sudden wilting even when soil looks moist. Remove and discard infected plants (don’t compost), then avoid planting radish or other brassicas in that bed for several years. To prevent repeat infections, keep soil pH closer to neutral (add lime if needed) and don’t overwater—use drip or water at the soil line to reduce stress on the crop.
How often should I water black radish during the 60-day main growing phase?
Water deeply so the top 6–8 in of soil stays consistently moist, not soggy, especially from transplanting/germination through root bulking (roughly weeks 2–6). In warm spells, this often means about 1 inch per week total rainfall plus irrigation, split into 2–3 waterings if the soil dries quickly. If you let the soil swing from dry to wet, black radish roots can fork or crack—aim for steady moisture.
How can I tell when black radish is ready to harvest at about 60 days?
Harvest when roots reach about 1.5–3 inches across and the foliage remains healthy but starts to slow in growth, usually around 60 days from sowing. You’ll often see the top of the root just peeking at the soil surface and the leaves are fuller than later in the season. Pull one test root first; if it’s still small and firm, wait a few more days and recheck.
Botanical illustration of Black Radish

Sink your senses into Black Radish’s dramatic, inky skin and crisp, white interior—cool, peppery, and boldly aromatic with a clean snap. At maturity in about 60 days, roots develop a smooth, nearly black exterior that peels away to reveal a firm, juicy texture prized for its sharp bite. Ideal for fresh slicing, bold winter-style roasts, and tangy pickles, this is a striking garden-to-plate variety that brings depth to salads and relish with every harvest.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Black Radish in Zone 1a typically begins around Indoor Lights Only. Wait until soil reaches at least 40°F before transplanting Black Radish.

Garden Alerts

Zone 1a has only 30 frost-free days — shorter than this crop's 60-day maturity. Outdoor planting is not viable; use protected cultivation.

Sowing Tips

Soil Temperature

Direct sow or transplant when soil at planting depth holds 40°F for reliable germination and early growth.

Expert Note

For best flavor and tenderness, keep soil consistently moist and harvest before roots get overgrown or woody.

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