Black Spanish radish, also known as black radish or Spanish radish, is a root vegetable known for its dark, rough skin and spicy flavor. This hardy radish variety is popular for winter storage and is often used in salads, soups, and stews.
| Common Name | Black Spanish radish, black radish |
| Botanical Name | Raphanus sativus var. niger |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Plant Type | Annual vegetable |
| Size | 8-14 inches tall; 3-4 inches in diameter |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil Type | Rich, well-drained |
| Soil pH | 6.0 to 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral) |
| Hardiness Zones | 2-10 (USDA) |
| Native Area: | Europe |
When to Plant?
This will be determined by your planting zone. There is a final frost date for each area. As a result, you can plan your gardening activities around this date. Check our Frost Dates Across North America: First & Last Frost Dates Chart. However, the date will not be the same for every plant. Black Spanish radishes grow best in cool weather. For a spring harvest, sow seeds directly into the garden 2-4 weeks before the last frost date. For a fall harvest, plant seeds in late summer, about 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost.
How to Plant
Black Spanish radishes are usually grown from seeds sown directly into the garden. Here’s how to plant them:
- Seeds: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep, spacing them 2-3 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches apart once they are a few inches tall.
Choose a site with well-draining, fertile soil. Black Spanish radishes prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates. Ensure the site receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Space radish plants 4-6 inches apart to allow for adequate root development. If you prefer a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season.
How to Cultivate
Light – Black Spanish radishes grow best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Soil – Use well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Radishes prefer a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Water – Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Black Spanish radishes need about 1 inch of water per week. Mulching can help retain soil moisture.
How to Harvest
Black Spanish radishes can be harvested at various stages of growth. For the best flavor and texture, harvest them when the roots are 3-4 inches in diameter. Use a garden fork to carefully lift the plants from the soil. The leafy greens can also be harvested when they are young and tender.
Common Pests and Diseases
Flea Beetles (Alticiniola)
Symptoms: Small holes in leaves, stunted growth
Management
Use row covers and apply insecticidal soap.
Root Maggots (Anthomyiidae)
Symptoms: Wilting, yellowing leaves, maggots in the roots
Management
Apply beneficial nematodes and practice crop rotation.
We’ve compiled a list of videos that will teach you how to grow black spanish radish.
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