Daikon Radish
Scientific Name: Raphanus sativus var. Longipinnatus
Learn about the benefits of using Daikon Radish seed (Raphanus sativus longipinnatus) as a cover crop from this Texas Farmer (video credits to the Texas Farm Bureau)
About
Daikon Radishes grow to form thick, yellow-white tap roots that can reach lengths of 8-14 inches. Most of the radish is underground. Daikon Radish (Raphanus sativus longipinnatus) have proven to efficiently break up shallow layers of compacted soils. Many have nicknamed Daikon Radishes “biodrills” or “tillage radishes.” The advantages of using this radish seed as a cover crop doesn’t stop there. As the roots die over the winter they add nutrients and leave channels so that the soil dries and warms up faster in the spring.
Planting
Drill 10-13 lbs/per acre at a depth of 1/4 – 1/2 inches. Drilling gives a much better stand, so broadcasting should be reserved for when the soil is too wet to drill. Use on smooth seedbed, well-drained but with adequate moisture. For best results, roll the ground after seeding to improve contact.
When to Plant
Plant 4-10 weeks before frost. (Late August is ideal. Early September in warm sites.)
*** Click on the “Quick Plant Facts” tab above for more information.
For more options click here: Cover Crops
DAIKON RADISH
(Raphanus sativus)
Daikon Radish Cover Crop Information Sheet
Daikon Radish Cover Crop Information Sheet
PDF version of Daikon Radish
Prepared By: Southern Cover Crop Council
(Raphanus sativus)
Oilseed Radish NRCS Plant Guide and Fact Sheet
Oilseed Radish NRCS Plant Guide and Fact Sheet
PDF version of NRCS Plant Guide and Fact Sheet
Prepared By: Alayna Jacobs, USDA-NRCS Booneville
Plant Materials Center, Arkansas
Citation: Jacobs, Alayna A. 2012. USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, Booneville Plant Materials Center. Booneville, AR 72927.
Helpful Links
Additional information about this product can be found on the academic websites linked below.
Synonyms
Many plants have more than one common and scientific name. We've listed a few of them below.
- Daikon Radish
- Raphanus sativus var. Longipinnatus
- Japanese radish
- Chinese radish
Who is Great Basin Seed?
Great Basin Seed is a seed company that specializes in seed sales and consultation for home, ranch, farm, range and reclamation. We have been a leader in the seed industry since 1974.
Right: Company founder Lloyd and his wife Paula Stevens in a wildflower seed production field circa 1977
Quick Plant Facts
| Common Name: | Daikon Radish |
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| Sun & Shade Tolerance: | Full sun, Partial shade |
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