How to Grow Scarlet Globe Radish
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Scarlet Globe Radish
Raphanus sativus var. sativus
vegetableScarlet Globe is a classic early-maturing radish variety prized for its perfectly round, deep red roots and crisp, mild white flesh. It's one of the most popular radish cultivars for home gardeners due to its reliability, quick growth, and attractive appearance. This cool-season crop is ideal for spring and fall gardens, producing tender roots in as little as 25 days.
When should you plant Scarlet Globe Radish in your zone?
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Example Scarlet Globe Radish timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Scarlet Globe Radish
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Scarlet Globe Radish
Around May 12≈ 25 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Scarlet Globe Radish dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-10; prefers cool seasons (spring and fall)
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Get my Scarlet Globe Radish timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
7-10 daysSeeds emerge as small cotyledons with fine roots developing; first true leaves appear within 5-7 days
Keep soil consistently moist; thin seedlings to proper spacing once they have true leaves to prevent overcrowding; provide bright light
Leaf Development
5-8 daysPlant develops 3-4 true leaves; small root begins to swell slightly; foliage is deep green and feathery
Maintain consistent moisture; thin to final spacing (2 inches apart) if not done earlier; ensure adequate light to prevent legginess
Root Bulking
8-12 daysRadish root begins rapid expansion; characteristic round shape becomes visible; red color develops on shoulder
Maintain even soil moisture to prevent splitting; avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer; remove competing weeds; monitor for pests
Mature Root
Ready to harvestRoot reaches 1-1.5 inches in diameter with vibrant scarlet-red color; flesh is white and firm; leaves remain green
Check root size by gently uncovering shoulder; harvest immediately when ready to prevent overmaturity and pithiness; do not delay harvesting
Post-Harvest
N/AIf left unharvested, roots become pithy, hollow, and bitter; leaves may bolt in warm weather
Harvest at peak maturity; store in refrigerator up to 2 weeks; plan succession plantings for continuous harvest
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Use floating row covers; spray neem oil; dust with diatomaceous earth; remove weeds that harbor beetles
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Use row covers to prevent flies from laying eggs; apply beneficial nematodes to soil; avoid planting near brassicas
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Spray with strong water stream; apply insecticidal soap; use neem oil; encourage beneficial insects
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Cover plants with row covers; rotate crops; avoid fresh manure; practice good sanitation
Uses
Fresh eating and salads
CulinaryScarlet Globe radishes are excellent sliced fresh in salads, where their crisp texture and mild, slightly peppery flavor shine. They can also be roasted whole or halved until tender, or thinly sliced and used as a garnish for soups and grain bowls. [source]
Pickled preservation
CulinaryThese radishes are ideal for pickling whole due to their firm texture and attractive red color. Quick pickles made with vinegar, sugar, and spices create a tangy condiment that lasts weeks in the refrigerator. [source]
Microgreen production
HouseholdRadish seeds are commonly sprouted as microgreens and can be harvested in 7-10 days for use in salads and sandwiches. They have a peppery, pungent flavor and are packed with nutritional compounds. [source]
Digestive support
MedicinalRadishes contain compounds that support digestion and have traditionally been used to aid bile production and gallbladder function. Their sulfur-containing glucosinolates may have anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Early season forage
WildlifeThe leafy greens are edible and highly nutritious for both humans and livestock, containing vitamins A, C, and minerals. Radish greens can be sautéed like spinach or added to soups. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Scarlet Globe radishes are best harvested at 1-1.5 inches in diameter for optimal tenderness and flavor. Check root size by gently brushing away soil to expose the shoulder without pulling. Harvest in the morning when roots are crisp and hydrated. Do not allow radishes to become overmature (larger than 1.5 inches), as they quickly become pithy, hollow, and develop a bitter, hot taste. For continuous harvest, make succession plantings every 2 weeks. Store unharvested radishes in the refrigerator with tops removed; they will keep 2-3 weeks.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Scarlet Globe was developed and popularized in the 1800s and remains largely unchanged, making it one of the most stable and consistent heirloom radish varieties available today.
- 🌱 Radishes are among the fastest-maturing vegetable crops, producing harvest-ready roots in less than a month—often faster than lettuce seedlings can grow.
- 🌱 The name 'radish' comes from the Latin 'radix,' meaning 'root,' and radishes have been cultivated for over 3,000 years, with evidence of their consumption in ancient Egypt and China.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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