Cherry Belle Radish

source: MIgardener

The Cherry Belle radish is what many think of when one says radish. It is generally what is sold in the grocery store and is a mildly spicy radish that gets hotter with a later season. They are a quick crop and can be harvested approximately 22 days after planting seeds.

Cold temperatures won’t slow germination; radishes germinate when soil temperatures are at least 45 degrees Fahrenheit so you can direct sow the first crop of Cherry Belle red radish seeds in rich soil, from two to four weeks before the last expected spring frost. Radishes grow in full and part sun with as little as three hours of direct sunlight plus light or dappled shade. Plant them in loose soil about 1/2" deep and 1" apart. Keep the soil evenly moist and seedlings will appear in five to 10 days. When the seedlings reach 1 to 2 inches tall thin to 2 inches apart so the round globes have room to develop. thin the seedlings 2-3" apart or more for larger radishes. For a continuous harvest, plant a new crop every two weeks until the heat of midsummer. For a fall crop and winter storage, plant red radish seeds about two months before the first expected fall frost.

Radishes do well with consistently moist soil and the addition of organic matter such as compost. In general, radishes need water more than fertilizer. Do not allow the soil to dry out, but also avoid overwatering as this can cause splitting.

This variety tastes best when harvested at 1" in diameter. Cherry Belle radishes are very sweet and crisp, do not grow woody, and store well in the refrigerator.

-Phyllis