Radish is an edible root vegetable from the Cruciferous family, cultivated in tropical and temperate regions. It is a fast-growing crop that can be grown year-round. The roots come in various colors, from white to red. Major radish-producing states in India include West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Punjab, and Assam. Radishes are a good source of Vitamin B6, calcium, copper, magnesium, and riboflavin, as well as being rich in ascorbic acid, folic acid, and potassium.

Climate / Temperature:

Radishes thrive best in cool weather, though they can be grown in mild climates as well. The ideal temperature for their growth is between 18°C and 25°C. Extreme heat or frost can harm the crop.

Water Demand: Radishes require regular irrigation. Water them every 6-7 days in summer and every 10-12 days in winter. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause the roots to deform.

Soil: Radishes grow best in loose, sandy loam soil. Heavy or compact soil can lead to twisted or distorted roots. The ideal soil pH for radish cultivation is between 5.5 and 6.8.

Major Varieties:

• Japanese White: Suitable for sowing in November-December, with cylindrical white roots. It yields around 160 quintals per acre.
• Pusa Chetki: Sown between April and August, it is an early-maturing variety that yields around 105 quintals per acre.
• Punjab Pasand: Another early-maturing variety that matures in about 45 days, producing 215 quintals per acre.

Sowing of Crops:

• Pusa Himani: Best for sowing in January-February.
• Punjab Pasand: Typically sown in the second week of March but can also be sown between April and August.
• Japanese White: November-December is the most suitable time for sowing.

Field Preparation: Plow the field thoroughly to remove weeds and break up soil clumps. Apply 5-10 tons of well-rotted organic manure per acre. Ensure that no partially decomposed manure is present in the soil.

Crop Cycle: Depending on the variety, the radish crop cycle lasts between 25 to 60 days from sowing.

Water Management: Irrigate the field immediately after sowing. During summer, water every 6-7 days, and in winter, every 10-12 days. To keep the crop fresh, give a light irrigation before harvesting.

Weed Management: Weed the field by hand 2-3 weeks after sowing. After weeding, mound soil around the plants to promote root development.

Harvesting: Radishes are ready for harvest 25-60 days after sowing when the roots are fully developed. They are pulled out by hand, washed, and sorted by size.

Diseases & Disease Prevention:

• Wilt: This disease causes yellow patches on the leaves. Prevent it by spraying a solution of 2g of Mancozeb and 1g of Carbendazim per liter of water.
• Black Blight: To prevent this disease, spray plants with a mixture of 1 ml Malathion 50 EC per liter of water.