When to sow radishes in the open ground according to the 2024 lunar calendar: expert advice

Radish is a fast-growing and cold-resistant crop that can be harvested within a month after sowing. However, its growth is influenced by the length of daylight hours, so it is important to know the right time for sowing in open ground. SSPDaily has learned that taking into account the lunar calendar can also provide favorable conditions for sowing in 2024.

Sowing radishes in open ground depends on the variety you choose. There are early ripening, mid-season, late, sub-winter and winter varieties. Early ripening varieties are recommended to be planted as soon as the ground warms up to about 2 degrees Celsius, which is usually in March or April. Ideally, the air temperature should reach 15-18 degrees Celsius for successful growth.

Mid-season varieties require a different approach as they tend to switch to a breeding mode with long daylight hours. Therefore, it is ideal to plant them in early June.

Late varieties are usually planted in August or September, which allows them to grow in certain climatic conditions. On the other hand, if you want to sow radishes before winter to get an early harvest, the seeds can be planted in November before frost. This is done if you are sure that there will be no warming that will cause premature germination.

In spring, radishes can be sown throughout the season, from March to June. Now let's look at the best days on the lunar calendar for sowing radishes in March 2024.

This month, the most favorable days for sowing are the 1st, 5th-7th, 12th-13th, 15th-16th, 18th-21st, 23rd-25th and 27th-29th of the lunar calendar.

For successful radish growth, it is important to create the right conditions for planting. Radish prefers clay soil but can grow on sandy soil with frequent watering. For optimal growth, it is recommended to prepare raised beds at least 20 cm high in the fall.

Before planting, the soil should be thoroughly dug up, clods of earth should be broken up and well-rotted fertilizers should be applied. If the bed was prepared in the fall, it should be lightly loosened to a depth of 5 cm and watered abundantly before sowing.

The location of the bed also plays an important role in radish growth. In spring and fall, it is ideal to have the bed in a place that receives morning sunlight. However, in June, you should choose a bed that is located in partial shade. In addition, it is recommended to choose a place that is protected from the wind.

Remember to keep a proper crop rotation, avoiding planting radishes or any other cruciferous for several years in a row. Examples of crops in the same family are cabbage, turnips, watercress, and mustard. It is recommended to wait at least 3-4 years before re-planting radishes in the same location to avoid potential pests and diseases.

Ideally, radishes grow well after cucumbers, pumpkins, tomatoes, potatoes, zucchini and peas. Useful companion plants for radishes include garlic, onions, spinach, legumes, carrots, tomatoes, and cucumbers.