rat tail radish

Rat-tail radishes, a member of the Raphanus sativus species, require about 1 inch of water per week. Water your plants on a regular basis, either every few days or weekly depending on weather conditions. During hot and dry periods, you may need to water more. During cooler temperatures and other periods of high precipitation, you may need to reduce the frequency of watering. Pay attention to the soil moisture level and water when the first few inches of soil are dry. Avoid overwatering as this can cause the radishes to become mushy or rot.

For optimal growth and health, Rat Tail Radish plants (Raphanus sativus 'Caudatus') need at least 6 hours of direct sun each day. They prefer to be grown in full sun, which is defined as 8 hours or more of sunlight per day. These plants should be exposed to the light in the morning, rather than the afternoon, as this increases their growth rate and productivity. Rat tail radishes, like other vegetables, need a cycle of light and dark to grow, so they should be shaded in the late afternoon to give them some respite. In areas with very hot climates, late afternoon shade can be beneficial to ensure they do not get scorched in the heat of the day.

Rat tail radishes should be pruned when the plants are young, between 1 and 2 months after planting. When pruning rat tail radishes, make sure to pinch off the top 1/4 to 1/2 inch of the stem, just above the topmost leaf. This will stimulate bushy growth and will ensure the plants produce full, plump radishes. Prune rat tail radishes regularly throughout the growing season, being sure to leave at least 2 leaves on each stem after pruning.