6 Steps to grow radishes from scraps (2023 Guide)
- Author: Saiqa Najeeb
- Last Updated On: July 10, 2023
Picture yourself harvesting crisp, vibrant radishes right outside your doorstep. Intriguing, isn’t it? Well, the good news is that you can effortlessly cultivate an abundance of delicious radishes from the comfort of your own home. Say farewell to lackluster store-bought radishes and welcome the opportunity to enjoy fresh, flavorful, and nutrient-rich radishes at your own pace.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through all the necessary steps to successfully grow radishes from scraps
About Radish
Many good radish types are available in local gardening stores and through seed catalogs. The shape, size, and color of the roots differ among the different types. The radish cultivars Champion, Cherry Belle, Daikon Long White, Icicle, and Easter Egg are among the most popular.
Check out our guide on vegetable gardening 101.
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day), Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours)
Soil Texture: Loam (Silt), Sand
Soil pH: Neutral (6.0-8.0)
Soil Drainage: Good Drainage
Space To Plant: Less than 12 inches
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone: 2a, 3a, 4a, 5a, 6a, 7a, 8a, 9a, 10a, 11a, 2b, 3b, 4b, 5b, 6b, 7b, 8b, 9b, 10b, 11b
How To Grow Radishes from Scraps?
1
Soil Preparation
Radishes grow best in fertile, well-drained, deep, sandy soils rich in organic materials. To allow for proper root development, heavy soils should be tweaked with enough compost. Incorporate up to 2-4 inches of thoroughly decomposed organic matter before planting, then apply 2-4 cups of all-purpose fertilizer (16-16-8 or 10-10-10) per 100 square feet. This should be worked into the top 6 inches of soil.
Check out how to choose the best soil for your vegetable garden.
2
Planting and Spacing
To grow radishes from scraps, remove the stalks and leaves from your radish. Stick three toothpicks into the radish and place them on the rim of the glass. Fill the glass halfway with water, leaving the top of the radish peeking out of the water. Avoid covering the entire radish as this may cause it to drown.
Place the jar in a bright window and leave it there. If you need to add extra water, do so. Some roots and leaves should be evident within a week or so. This indicates that growth has commenced. You have two weeks to wait. After two weeks, the radish will have filled the entire glass with roots.
3
Watering and fertilization
Water radishes on a regular basis. Water requirements vary according to soil type. Mulching around plants helps to keep the soil moist. If possible, use drip irrigation. Variations in moisture cause root breaking, impede leaf development, and contribute to “hot,” bitter roots. Stress during the first six weeks of growth is frequently associated with premature blooming and low yields.
After emergence, apply 14 cups per 10-foot row of a nitrogen-based fertilizer (21-0-0) to induce rapid plant growth. Place the fertilizer to the side of the plants and water it in.
Explore our guide on essential gardening tools guide here.
4
Managing Pests and diseases
Most radishes grow quickly and are not prone to numerous production issues. To help control several diseases, rotate the planting site in the garden from year to year. When you grow radishes from scraps, you may encounter following conditions:
- Weeds: Radishes struggle to compete with weeds. Weed control is especially crucial during germination and the early stages of plant establishment when plant growth is modest. Deep cultivation around the plants should be avoided because root pruning and damage would reduce growth and productivity.
- Root Maggots: Root maggots are small white maggots that dig into the root and bulb. Reduces yield and quality. Use insecticides on the soil.
- Flea Beetles: Small black bugs that feed on seedlings are known as flea beetles. Adults use their teeth to chew tiny holes in cotyledons and leaves. Feeding harm decreases plant standing and has the potential to kill seedlings. Chemical control can be used during seeding or after seedlings have emerged from the soil. To keep pests at bay, use floating row covers.
- Root Rots: Fungal illnesses that cause degeneration and rotting of the root. Plant stands may be harmed. Crop rotation, improved soil drainage, and seed treatment can all help to provide effective control.
Read our growing guide for how to grow cucumbers vertically.
5
Harvest And Storage
When the roots reach their full size, radishes can be harvested. Depending on the cultivar, roots mature approximately 25-45 days from sowing. Plants should be lifted by the tips and leaves should be trimmed. Wash and refrigerate in plastic bags for 2-4 weeks. Radishes should be gathered before the ground freezes or frosts.
Let’s get growing!
“So, now you’ve learned all the essential details to grow radishes from scraps. It’s time to put this newfound knowledge into action and witness the fruitful results. By implementing these simple techniques and strategies, you’ll soon find yourself on the path to a flourishing indoor radish garden.
With a touch of dedication and effort, you can transform your indoor space into a delightful haven for growing radishes. Don’t hesitate to sow the seeds today and anticipate the joy of harvesting juicy, nutritious radishes in the near future.
