Radish Watermelon

Soil Preparation 

 Ideal Soil:

• Loose, well draining soil – prevents splitting. 
• pH: 5.8–6.8. Test with a kit; amend with lime if acidic or sulphur if alkaline. 

 Preparation:

• Loosen soil to 15–20 cm depth.
• Mix in compost or aged manure for fertility.

Sowing Seeds 

 Depth:

1 cm. 

 Spacing:

• 5 cm apart. 

 Germination:

• 3–7 days in 8–30°C soil.
• Thin seedlings to 5 cm apart to avoid overcrowding.

Watering 

• Keep soil consistently moist (not waterlogged). 
• Water lightly daily in hot/dry weather.
• Mulch with straw to retain moisture and regulate temperature.

Fertilising 

• Use balanced fertiliser at planting.
• Avoid excess nitrogen promotes leafy tops, not roots. 
• Side dress with compost mid growth for heavy feeders like Daikon.

Pest & Disease Management 

 Pests: 

• Flea beetles – Use row covers or companion plants  such as nasturtiums and marigolds. 
• Aphids – Spray with soapy water or attract ladybugs. 

 Diseases: 

• Root rot – Avoid overwatering. Ensure good drainage. 
• Clubroot in brassicas – Rotate crops; avoid planting where brassicas grew recently.

Harvesting 

 Timing:

• 7 weeks – check size at 2–3 cm diameter. 

 Method:

• Pull gently from soil. Harvest promptly to avoid woody texture. 

 Storage:

• Remove greens, store in fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Companion Planting Guide 

Good Companions:

• Lettuce/Spinach – Shallow roots; no competition.
• Carrots – Radishes break soil; carrots fill space.   
• Peas/Beans – Fix nitrogen; boost growth.
• Nasturtiums – Repel aphids, beetles.
• Chervil – Deters slugs.

Avoid:

• Hyssop inhibits radish growth. 
• Potatoes and cucumbers compete for nutrients/space.

Common Mistakes 

 Overcrowding:

• Thin seedlings early. 

 Inconsistent watering:

• Causes splitting or bitterness. 

 Late harvesting:

• Roots become woody.