Mantanghong

Radish

Zone 9a Save Garden

🌱 50d to harvest Taproot

Juicy and vividly sweet, Mantanghong watermelon radish blooms with a crisp, water-bright crunch and a clean, peppery lift that fa…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	Mar 6th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Mar 6th
Harvest Begins	Apr 25th
Harvest Ends	Nov 26th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	50
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Taproot
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	55
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	28
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Recommended Companions

Bolero Carrot

Calypso Onion Onion

Cortland Onion

Danvers Half Long Carrot

Thumbelina Carrot

Buttercrisp Lettuce

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Raphanus sativus (mantanghong), and how can I treat it?

For mantanghong, flea beetles (Brassicaceae pests) are a common problem, especially in warm weather, causing small shot-hole damage on leaves. Cover seedlings with fine row cover right after sowing and keep it on until plants are well established; if damage appears, spray with insecticidal soap and remove heavily affected leaves to reduce buildup. Watch for clubroot-related issues (galling on roots) in cool, wet soils—rotate away from Brassicas and avoid planting where clubroot has occurred.

How often should I water mantanghong during the main growing phase?

During the main bulbing phase, keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged—aim for a light, consistent moisture level that supports steady growth. In typical home gardens this often means watering about 2–3 times per week, adjusting to rainfall and soil type so the top 1 inch stays damp. Uneven moisture can lead to cracking or woody, unpleasant texture in radish roots.

How do I know when mantanghong is ready to harvest?

Start checking from about day 45–50: harvest when the roots reach their expected size and feel firm. Avoid leaving them in the ground too long after they mature, because Brassica-family radishes can become pithy or get a stronger, more bitter flavor as they overshoot size.

Juicy and vividly sweet, Mantanghong watermelon radish blooms with a crisp, water-bright crunch and a clean, peppery lift that fades into mellow sweetness. The flesh shows a striking gradient—blush to rosy red—framed by a smooth, pale exterior that feels cool and satin-sleek in the hand. Grow Mantanghong for standout fresh slices and showy radish platters, or for quick roasting and vibrant pickling where its color stays beautifully alive.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 28°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

For the mild, slightly sweet flavor and best pink color, keep soil moisture consistent and avoid hot spells that push radishes to bolt.