Tillage Radish Cover Crop
Raphanus sativus
Certified Organic
Tillage radish is the perfect crop for breaking up hardpan soils or improving tilth in workable but heavy clays. It is similar to a daikon radish, with big, strong roots that plunge deep into the soil. Sown in late summer, these roots carve deep channels into the soil and are later winter killed, which turns the roots into mush as the soil thaws. After a few weeks, the root mush starts to dry up, leaving behind air channels that help establish deeper tilth and dramatically increases the surface area of the soil that is exposed to air, allowing the soil to dry out more quickly—especially helpful in wet springs.
Sow 4-8 weeks before first fall frost (Late August or early September in zones 5-7). Note that you'll want to avoid putting brassica crops directly into beds just occupied by tillage radish. Wait til later in the season or the following year.
1 ounce sows 125 square feet.
¼ pound sows 400 square feet.
½ pound, sows 800 square feet.
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Growing instructions
Product Details
| Days to Maturity | 70 days |
|---|---|
| Days to Germination | 3 to 5 days |
| Width at Maturity | 12 inches |
| Height at Maturity | 18 inches |
| Sun Conditions | Partial Sun (4-6 hours Sun), Full Sun (8+ Hours Sun) |
| Planting Depth | 1/2" |
| Row Spacing | 12 inches |
| Plant Spacing | 3 inches |
I purchased tillage radish seeds to improve the drainage in a new backyard vineyard I planted earlier this year in Michigan. I planted the radish seeds in mid August they grew quickly and reliably (picture was taken in late October). I’m very happy with their performance.
Put down in September and growing beautifully in Cleveland.
We recently planted the seeds and they have come up already. I need to thin them a bit.
Haven’t use it yet
Great to break up clay soil
The tillage radishes came up right away and are plowing through packed clay-y soil. So pleased with this cover crop!
Great germination and quick growing.
I planted these probably late July-Sept (Minnesota) and they did great. Would definitely use these again!
So far, the tillage radishes planted in a couple of garden plots have overperformed Hudson Valley's posted expectations. That's a great way to do business! I was amazed when the seeds were sown with no cover and sprouted in two or three days. After roughly 6 weeks, the tops are about 1 foot tall. I haven't pulled any to see how long the root is, but I'm sure curious.
Germination rate is very high.
I’m actually rating the selection and delivery, since I didn’t use the seeds yet! I was happy with the wide selection of seeds (and the beautiful packages!), and they arrived quickly. Can’t wait to plant them!