Raphanus sativus aka Cultivated Radish

Taxonomy

The radish (Raphanus sativus) is an edible root vegetable of the family Brassicaceae that was domesticated in Asia prior to Roman times. Radishes are grown and consumed throughout the world, being mostly eaten raw as a crunchy salad vegetable with a pungent, slightly spicy flavor. They vary in size, flavor, color, and time to maturity. Radishes owe their sharp flavor to chemical compounds produced by the plants. They are easy to grow, germinate quickly, and are ready for consumption within a month. Some radishes, like the Cherry Belle variety, have uniform cylindrical roots with tender crunchy white flesh and reach maturity in only 21 days. Cherry Belle radishes are small red spring radishes, about 3/4 inch in diameter, resembling cherries. They have green tops that grow 6 to 8 inches in height. These fast-growing radishes have a milder flavor and are great for salads or eaten raw.

Common names

Cultivated Radish, Garden Radish, Radish

How to care for Cultivated Radish

Difficulty

Cultivated Radish requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Cultivated Radish should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

When growing Cultivated Radish, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Radish with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Cultivated Radish from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the Cultivated Radish regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Cultivated Radish will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Cultivated Radish prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Cultivated Radish to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Region of origin

Cultivated Radish’s native range is A plant of cultivation. the origin of which is obscure. It probably arose through cultivation.

More info:
Wikipedia