China White is a reliable variety for winter storage or pickling, producing roots that measure 5 to 6 inches. When stored properly, the roots remain crisp and mild throughout the winter, and the plants can withstand light frost, making them ideal for cooler climates.
Winter Radish Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow winter radish seeds outdoors in late summer to early fall, about 8–10 weeks before the first expected frost date. Winter radishes thrive in cooler temperatures and are best harvested after a light frost.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot or an area with partial shade. Winter radishes prefer loose, well-draining soil with consistent moisture.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 8–12 inches, removing rocks and debris to allow roots to grow straight and long. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds 1/2–1 inch deep, spacing them 4–6 inches apart in rows.
- Space rows 12–18 inches apart for larger root growth and proper airflow.
- Thinning: Thin seedlings to 4–6 inches apart once they are about 2 inches tall to give each radish room to develop properly.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply to encourage root development, especially during dry spells.
General Care Tips for Winter Radishes
- Sunlight: Provide full sun for optimal growth. Winter radishes can tolerate partial shade but may take longer to mature.
- Watering: Maintain even soil moisture throughout the growing period to prevent radishes from becoming woody or splitting. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
- Fertilizing: Enrich soil with compost or a balanced fertilizer before planting. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can promote excessive leaf growth instead of root development.
- Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and moisture. Mulching helps suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.
- Harvesting: Harvest winter radishes before the ground freezes. Depending on the variety, they are typically ready for harvest 50–70 days after sowing. Gently loosen the soil around the roots before pulling them to avoid damage.
- Storage: Winter radishes can be stored for months if kept in a cool, humid environment. Remove foliage and store roots in damp sand or sawdust in a root cellar or refrigerator.
