How can I tell when radishes are ready for harvest?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Knowing exactly when you can harvest radishes makes for a crisp texture and well-balanced flavor. Picking them too early and they'll be bland. If you wait too long and they will get woody. There are three unmistakable signs to tell when radishes are ripe: root shoulders start forming, they have a healthy leafy top, and they are mature for your intended timeline.
Root Shoulder Visibility
- Gently brush soil from root tops to check diameter
- Cherry Belle radishes show readiness at ¾ inch (1.9 cm)
- Watermelon varieties need 2 inch (5 cm) shoulder exposure
- Firm texture indicates optimal harvest window
Foliage Development
- Measure leaf height from soil to tip
- 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) for Cherry Belle types
- 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) for Daikon varieties
- Deep green color with 6-8 true leaves signals maturity
Maturity Timeline
- Track days from planting using seed packet guidelines
- Adjust for temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or heavy rain
- Spring radishes mature in 22-28 days typically
- Winter varieties require 55-60 days for full development
Test one radish first before taking the whole crop. Cut into it to see if the flesh is solid white with no hollow places. Taste to ensure there is a balance of peppery flavor. The more heat we have, the spicier they will be; on the other hand, cool temperatures help them to be sweeter. I always try one radish before harvest.
Steer clear of typical mistakes as harvesting midday can evaporate significant moisture from roots and make them less crispy. Blossoms should be harvested in the morning, after the dew dries but before 10 AM, when they have the highest moisture content. Efficient harvesting is possible if the soil is like a squeezed sponge at harvest. This helps reduce cracking.
Read the full article: 3 Signs to Know When to Harvest Radishes
