Watermelon radish is a special variety of Daikon radish, which is one of my favorites. They are a member of the mustard family, which includes arugula and turnip. An interesting melon radish fact tells us that the Chinese word for these radishes is shinri-mei, which means “beauty at heart.” One only needs to slice into one of these beauties to understand the meaning behind the name. Their Latin name is Rapanus sativus acanthiformis .
As for how watermelons taste, their milk tastes like they have a slightly sweeter flavor than they do and a little less in taste. Unlike other varieties, the flavor actually matures even further as the more mature radishes become.
Growing Watermelon Radish
Because these are an heirloom variety, finding watermelon radish seeds may require a bit more searching than a local five and a neem rind, but it is well worth the effort. It is easy to order watermelon radish seeds through the online seed catalog.
Growing watermelon radishes is as easy as growing other radishes. They take longer to mature than other varieties, however — about 65 days. Plant them early to late spring. They can be planted anew every two weeks for a continuous harvest.
Radishes thrive in well-drained, fertile, deep, sandy soil rich in organic matter. Before sowing watermelon radish seeds, you should thoroughly fertilize the soil with 2-4 inches of composted organic matter and 2-4 cups of all-purpose fertilizer (16-16-8 or 10-10-10-) per 100 square feet. may wish to amend. feet, especially if your soil tends to be heavy. Work these into the top 6 inches of soil.
Radish seeds can be sown directly in the garden when soil temps are 40 F. (4 C.) but germinate best at 55-75 F. (12-23 C.). Sow seeds in rich soil, spread evenly in rows 6 inches apart at soil inch depth. Tamp the soil lightly and water the seeds and maintain frequent irrigation as the radishes grow. When the seedlings are an inch tall, thin them to 2 inches.
