When to Harvest Radishes?
Radishes are a cool-season crop that grows best in spring and fall. They grow quickly and can reach maturity within 3-4 weeks from the day of sowing. Therefore, it’s essential to keep a check on your plants frequently once they start to grow.
Radishes should be harvested when they are at their optimal size, but before they become overgrown and tough. The size and shape of the radish depend on its variety. Most radishes are ready to be harvested when they are 1 inch in diameter or when their bulbs are visible above the soil. However, some varieties may need more time to mature.
How to Harvest Radishes?
Harvesting radishes is a simple process and can be done by following these steps:
Step 1: Loosen the Soil
Fluffy soil is essential for harvesting radishes. Carefully loosen the soil around the bulb with the help of a garden fork or trowel. This action ensures that the bottom portion of the radish is adequately detached from the soil.
Step 2: Pull the Radish
With a firm grip, gently pull the radish out of the soil. If the soil is too dry, you may also remove a little soil from around the roots to loosen them.
Step 3: Trim the Leaves
After harvesting, you should trim the leaves by snipping them off with scissors, leaving an inch of stem attached to the bulb. If the leaves are wilted, you may remove them altogether.
Step 4: Wash and Store
Clean the harvested radishes by washing them thoroughly with cold water. Afterward, dry them well and store them in the refrigerator. If you have harvested more radishes than you need, you can also freeze or pickle them for later use.
Tips for Harvesting Radishes
– Always use sharp and tools when harvesting to avoid injury or contamination.
– Radishes grown in dry soil may be smaller than those grown in moist soil.
– Overgrown radishes can become tough and woody. It’s best to harvest them when they are at the optimal size.
– Don’t leave radishes in the ground for too long. Overdue harvesting can lead to bolting, where the plant produces a flower stalk and becomes inedible.
– If you don’t want to harvest your radishes at once, you can cover them with a clean-radishes” title=”How to clean radishes”>thin layer of soil to keep them fresh for a few more days.
– Radish leaves are edible and can be used in salads, soups, or stir-fries. It’s best to use them fresh, within a day or two of harvesting.
Conclusion
Harvesting radishes is a simple process that requires minimal effort. Ensure that your radishes are harvested at the proper size and don’t leave them in the ground for too long. With the right tools and techniques, you’ll have a bountiful crop of radishes that you can enjoy for many meals!