Tillage Radish (Daikon)

Tillage Radish (Daikon Radish) (Raphanus sativus var. longipinnatus)

Tillage Radish, also known as Daikon Radish, is a deep-rooted cover crop used primarily for breaking up compacted soil, improving soil structure, and adding organic matter. Its long taproots penetrate hardpan soil layers, improving water infiltration and nutrient cycling. The radish root also scavenges nitrogen and other nutrients from deep in the soil, preventing nutrient runoff and making these nutrients available for future crops. In regenerative agriculture, Tillage Radish is a popular choice for reducing soil compaction, enhancing soil fertility, and managing weeds, while its roots decompose over winter to add valuable organic matter to the soil.

Key Characteristics:

• Soil compaction breaker: Tillage Radish has an impressive taproot that can reach depths of up to 12 inches or more, breaking through compacted soil layers. This helps to improve water infiltration, root penetration, and overall soil health, making it ideal for gardens, pastures, and no-till farming systems.

• Nitrogen scavenger: The deep roots of Tillage Radish capture residual nitrogen and other nutrients left in the soil after harvest, preventing nutrient leaching. These nutrients are stored in the radish’s biomass and released back into the soil as the radish decomposes, feeding future crops.

• Weed suppression: As a fast-growing cover crop, Tillage Radish outcompetes weeds, creating a natural mulch layer when the foliage dies back in winter. Its fast growth helps keep fields clean during fall and early winter, reducing weed pressure for spring plantings.

• Organic matter and soil aeration: When the radish roots decompose in the spring, they leave behind channels in the soil that improve aeration and water infiltration. This natural tillage effect helps build healthier, more porous soils without the need for mechanical tilling.

• Cold-hardy and fast-growing: Tillage Radish thrives in cool fall weather and is often planted after summer crops are harvested. It quickly grows before the first frost, with the roots penetrating deep into the soil and the foliage protecting the soil surface.

Product Details:

• Native range: East Asia (cultivated worldwide)
• Plant life cycle: Annual
• Sun requirements: Full sun
• Soil requirements: Well-drained, medium to heavy soils; tolerates compacted soils
• Mature height: 1-2 feet above ground, taproots up to 12-18 inches deep
• Bloom time: N/A (typically terminated before bloom for cover crop use)
• Bloom color: White to pale purple (if allowed to flower)
• USDA Hardiness zones: 5-9

Tillage Radish (Daikon) is a must-have cover crop for breaking up compacted soils, improving nutrient cycling, and enhancing soil health without mechanical tillage. Its powerful taproots are nature’s way of revitalizing your soil for future crop success.