French Breakfast Radish
Raphanus sativus
Family: Brassicaceae
French Breakfast radishes are elegant, elongated radishes with red tops fading to white tips. Named for the French tradition of eating them for breakfast with butter and salt, they have a milder flavor than round red radishes.
Days to Harvest
21-30 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
3-7 days
Seed Depth
1/2 inch
Light to Germinate
No
đź’ˇ Tip: Direct sow only. Sow as soon as soil can be worked in spring.
Soil Type
Loose, well-draining soil
pH Range
6 - 7
Spacing
1-2 inches between plants, 6-12 inches between rows
⚠️ Avoid planting near:
History
This variety was introduced in France in the mid-1800s and quickly became a Parisian market favorite. The elongated shape and two-tone coloring made them distinctive and prized by gourmets.
Nutritional Benefits
- âś“Good source of Vitamin C
- âś“Very low in calories
- âś“Contains fiber
Optimal Growing Temp
50°F - 65°F
French Breakfast radishes prefer cool weather. Heat causes pithiness and bolting.
Survival Range
28°F - 75°F
Can survive these temperatures
Frost Note: Tolerates light frost.
Best USDA Zones
Humidity
50-70%
Moderate humidity is fine.
Height
6-8 inches
Spread
2-3 inches
Growth Habit
rosette
Germination
3-7 days
Quick germination.
Seedling Stage
Duration: 1-2 weeks
True leaves: Rough leaves develop
Transplant ready: Direct sow—radishes don't transplant.
Vegetative Growth
Duration: 2-3 weeks
Roots develop quickly.
Harvest Maturity
Timing: 21-28 days
- Elongated shape visible
- 2-3 inches long
- Red with white tip
Per Plant
1 radish
Per Square Foot
16-25 radishes
Harvest Frequency
Harvest as they mature
Factors Affecting Yield
- •Quick harvest before heat
- •Consistent moisture
Seedling Stage
Keep moist
Established Plants
1 inch per week
During Fruiting
Consistent moisture
Preferred Method
Light, frequent watering.
⚠️ Critical Watering Periods
- • Entire growth period
Pro Tips
- Consistent moisture for mild flavor
Feeding Schedule
Soil prep
Light compost
Once
Organic Options
Minimal needed for fast crop.
Minimum Size
6 inches deep
Recommended Size
8+ inches deep
Depth Required
6 inches minimum
Best Varieties for Containers
Container Tips
- Well-draining mix
- Keep moist
Plant Every
Every 10-14 days
Sowings/Season
6-8
Duration
Spring and fall
Tips
- Skip midsummer—too hot
