Beginner

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.

Written by SuNutri Editorial Team, Master Gardeners

Days to Harvest

50-70 days

Sun Needs

Full Sun to Partial Shade (4-6 hours)

Water Needs

moderate

Germination Temp

65°F optimal

Add to Planting Calendar Seed Starting Guide

Seed Starting

Start Indoors

0 weeks before last frost

Germination

5-10 days

Seed Depth

1/2 inch

Light to Germinate

💡 Tip: Best planted in late summer for fall harvest. Spring plantings often bolt in heat. Direct sow only.

Growing Conditions

Soil Type

Deep, loose, well-draining soil

pH Range

5.8 - 6.8

Spacing

4-6 inches between plants, 12-18 inches between rows

Companion Plants

✓ Lettuce✓ Spinach✓ Cucumbers✓ Squash

⚠️ Avoid planting near:

✗ Other brassicas✗ Hyssop

History & Nutrition

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

✓Very low in calories
✓Good source of Vitamin C
✓Contains digestive enzymes

Climate & Temperature

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

hardy

cool Season

Frost Note: Tolerates light frost. Frost sweetens the roots. Can survive to about 20°F.

Best USDA Zones

Zone 3Zone 4Zone 5Zone 6Zone 7Zone 8Zone 9

Humidity

50-70%

Moderate humidity is fine.

Plant Size & Growth

Height

12-18 inches

Spread

6-8 inches

Growth Habit

rosette

annualRoot Depth: Deep roots (12-18 inches). Requires loose, deep soil.

Growth Stages

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

Expected Yield

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

Watering Guide

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

Fertilizing Guide

light feederRecommended: Low nitrogen (5-10-10)

Feeding Schedule

Soil prep

Compost

Once before planting

Organic Options

CompostWood ash

Work compost deeply into soil. Avoid nitrogen.

Container Growing

✗ Not ideal for containers

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant daikon?

Plant 8-10 weeks before first fall frost for the sweetest, largest roots. Summer heat makes daikon pungent and causes bolting. Fall-planted daikon can store for months in cool conditions.