How Come Some Radish Seeds Grow Faster Than Others?

Types

• The type of radish seed planted has a direct effect on how quickly the seed grows and develops. There are numerous types of radish seeds from which to choose, including White, Cherry Belle and Black Spanish. Radish seed packages carry labels that specify whether the seed grows best in early spring, late spring or winter months. Radishes labeled for growth in the spring and summer months often grow and mature more quickly than those for the winter growing season. Other labels for faster maturing radishes include "early" or "mid-season," while another label for more slowly maturing radishes is "late."

Growing Medium

• The soil used to grow radishes has an impact on how quickly the radishes grow and mature. Soil should be worked thoroughly to ensure no stones, clumps of dirt, old roots or other debris remain. Once the soil has been worked through, it should be light, loose and very well drained. Soil that is too tightly packed may impede or even prevent radish seed growth, while soil that does not drain well holds moisture and promotes root rot, preventing the seeds from growing properly. Finally, check the growing instructions for your specific variety of radishes as some specify planting on top of the soil while others specify planting below the soil. Improperly planting the seeds may result in slower growth.

Nourishment

• Radishes do not require fertilization like other garden plants often do. However, just before planting, bonemeal may be worked into the soil to add nutrients that encourage growth and development of the seeds. Follow the directions on the bonemeal packaging to determine the proper amount for your garden bed. A useful ratio is two handfuls per square yard of topsoil used for planting radishes. Water the seeds daily, ensuring even and consistent moisture. Soil should be kept moist, never soggy or muddy. Radish seeds grow so quickly that they require plenty of water to keep up with their growth rate. Seeds that receive enough nourishment grow more quickly and efficiently than dry or malnourished seeds.

Light

• Sunlight is imperative for proper and fast radish growth. These plants do not grow quickly in the shade, regardless of the variety of radish seed planted. Radishes need a full- to partial-sun environment. This means the seeds should be get at least three to six hours of direct sunlight each day. Without enough sunlight, the seeds may grow slowly or not at all.