Daikon Radish
Raphanus sativus var. longipinnatus
Family: Brassicaceae
Daikon is a large white winter radish essential in Asian cuisine. Unlike small spring radishes, daikon can grow 12-18 inches long and stores for months. The mild flavor becomes sweeter with cooking.
Days to Harvest
50-70 days
Sun Needs
Full Sun to Partial Shade (4-6 hours)
moderate
Germination Temp
65°F optimal
Start Indoors
0 weeks before last frost
Germination
4-7 days
Seed Depth
1/2 inch
Light to Germinate
No
đź’ˇ Tip: Best planted in late summer for fall harvest. Spring plantings often bolt in heat. Direct sow only.
Soil Type
Deep, loose, well-draining soil
pH Range
5.8 - 6.8
Spacing
4-6 inches between plants, 12-18 inches between rows
⚠️ Avoid planting near:
History
Daikon has been cultivated in Asia for over 1,000 years, with origins likely in China. The name "daikon" is Japanese for "big root." It's a staple in Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Southeast Asian cuisines.
Nutritional Benefits
- âś“Very low in calories
- âś“Good source of Vitamin C
- âś“Contains digestive enzymes
Optimal Growing Temp
50°F - 65°F
Daikon is a cool-season crop. Fall planting produces the largest, mildest roots.
Survival Range
25°F - 80°F
Can survive these temperatures
Frost Note: Tolerates light frost. Frost sweetens the roots. Can survive to about 20°F.
Best USDA Zones
Humidity
50-70%
Moderate humidity is fine.
Height
12-18 inches
Spread
6-8 inches
Growth Habit
rosette
Germination
4-7 days
Quick germination. Seedlings emerge rapidly.
Seedling Stage
Duration: 2-3 weeks
True leaves: Rough-textured leaves develop
Transplant ready: Direct sow only—daikon doesn't transplant.
Vegetative Growth
Duration: 40-60 days
Roots grow rapidly, reaching 12-18 inches in fall.
Harvest Maturity
Timing: 50-70 days
- Shoulders 2-3 inches diameter
- Roots protrude from soil
- Harvest before hard freeze
Per Plant
1 large root (1-3 lbs)
Per Square Foot
4 daikon (6-inch spacing)
Harvest Frequency
Single harvest
Factors Affecting Yield
- •Deep loose soil
- •Fall planting
- •Consistent moisture
Seedling Stage
Keep moist
Established Plants
1-1.5 inches per week
During Fruiting
Consistent moisture prevents cracking
Preferred Method
Drip irrigation or soaker hoses.
⚠️ Critical Watering Periods
- • Root development phase
Pro Tips
- Consistent moisture is critical for mild flavor and tender texture
Feeding Schedule
Soil prep
Compost
Once before planting
Organic Options
Work compost deeply into soil. Avoid nitrogen.
Minimum Size
Not recommended—roots too long
Recommended Size
Raised beds 15+ inches deep
Depth Required
15-18 inches minimum
Container Tips
- Short varieties like Tokinashi may work in deep containers
