Variety field guide
What to expect from China White Winter Radish Seeds
China White Winter produces substantial white roots, typically six to eight inches long and about two inches across.
Read the complete product descriptionTraits, flavor, garden use, variety notes, and the full catalog record
China White Winter produces substantial white roots, typically six to eight inches long and about two inches across. The cylindrical shape makes them easy to slice or grate for slaws, salads and pickles, while their firm flesh also suits cooking. This older winter radish needs more time and room than a quick spring radish. Plan a late-summer sowing so the roots develop in cooling weather and can be gathered before severe freezes.
Long white roots for cool-season meals and pickling.
Growing facts
- Botanical name: Raphanus sativus
- Maturity or display: About 60 days
- Mature size: 6-8 in. long roots, about 2 in. across
- Spacing: 6 in between plants; rows 18 in
About the variety
China White Winter is an open-pollinated winter radish grown for developed white roots. It needs more room and a longer cool-season growing period than small, fast spring radishes.
Starting seed
Direct sow 1/2 in. deep in late summer for cool-weather roots. Keep moist; allow 4-10 days to sprout. Thin to 6 in. apart, rows 18 in. apart. Use full sun and loose, fertile soil; water steadily.
Care through the season
Deep, stone-free soil helps roots develop evenly. Keep moisture consistent and weed gently to avoid root damage. Late-summer plantings are generally better for winter radishes than increasing spring daylength; thin crowded plants promptly.
Harvest and use
Pull crisp roots around 60 days, before they turn pithy. Remove tops and refrigerate. For seed, retain typical plants through flowering, allowing a cold period if needed; isolate radish varieties and dry mature pods.
Saving seed
Radishes cross readily through insect pollination. Save from several healthy, typical roots, keeping them through any needed winter chilling and the following flowering period. Isolate from other flowering radishes, dry fully mature pods, then shell, clean and label the seed.
Common problems
Flea beetles injure leaves and root maggots can tunnel into roots. Use insect netting early and rotate the bed. Crowding, drought, heat and delayed harvest can cause poor roots, excessive pungency or pithiness.
Frequently asked questions
What distinguishes this variety?
China White Winter produces substantial white roots, typically six to eight inches long and about two inches across.
When should I harvest?
Pull crisp roots around 60 days, before they turn pithy. Remove tops and refrigerate. For seed, retain typical plants through flowering, allowing a cold period if needed; isolate radish varieties and dry mature pods.
How can I avoid poor quality?
Deep, stone-free soil helps roots develop evenly. Keep moisture consistent and weed gently to avoid root damage. Late-summer plantings are generally better for winter radishes than increasing spring daylength; thin crowded plants promptly.
