RADISH

Radish, edible root vegetable belongs to family of "cruciferous" and its origin is in Mediterranean. It is crop of tropical and temperate region. It is a quick growing annual or biannual herb. Its edible roots are having different color from white to red. West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Punjab and Assam are major radish growing states. Radish is good source of vitamin B6, Calcium, copper, magnesium and riboflavin. Also, it is rich in ascorbic acid, folic acid and potassium. 

It can grow on all type of soils but give best result when grown on light friable, sandy loam soil. Avoid heavy or compact soils as it produces rough, malformed roots. Ideal pH of soil for good growth is 5.5 to 6.8.

Plough land thoroughly for two-three times and make land weed and clods free. After each ploughing, take planking operation. Add well decomposed cow dung of 60-80qtl/acre at time of land preparation. Avoid use of undecomposed or free cow dung as it will leads to forking of fleshy roots. For sowing use flat bed or ridges.

Nutrient Requirement (kg/acre)

Along with well decomposed cow dung, apply Nitrogen@20 kg to 32 kg (in form of Urea@45 kg-70 kg), Phosphorus@20 kg (in form of SSP@125 kg/acre) and Potash@20 kg (MOP@35 kg) per acre in soil at time of sowing. 

Overall three to four irrigation are required for Radish crop. After sowing, apply first irrigation, it will help in good germination. Second irrigation is provided, when crop is at 3-4 leaves stage. Depending upon soil type and climate, apply remaining irrigations at interval of 6-7 days in summer and 10-12 days in winter. Avoid excessive irrigation as it will leads misshape of roots and numerous hair growth. Also take care that field should content sufficient moisture throughout growing period. As dry condition, will affect root development. In summer season, provide pre-harvest light irrigation. It will keep root fresh and reduce pungency.

• Pest and their control:

• Disease and their control:

Flea beetles and mustard saw fly: If infestation is observed in field , to control take spray of Malathion 50EC@1ml/Litre of water. Repeat spray for two-three times at interval of 10days.

Depending upon variety, radish is ready for harvesting in 45-60days after sowing. European varieties ready to harvest in 28-30ays whereas Asiatic variety matures in 45 to 60days. Harvesting is done manually by uprooting plants. Harvested roots are washed and then graded upon size.

After harvesting, grading of radish depending upon size is carried out. The product is marketed loose or sometime they are packed in gunny bags or basket. They can be stored for three to four days at room temperature and for two months at 0oC at relative humidity of 90-95%.

For seed purpose, roots are selected and then they are plant at distance of 60cmx60cm or 60x45cm. Apply Nitrogen@ 38 kg, Phosphorus and Potash@22 kg/acre. i.e. Urea@85 kg, SSP@140 kg and MoP@40 kg/acre. When pod changes its color to yellow, carry out harvesting. After harvesting, carried out cleaning, drying and grading operations.