Sliced Japanese Wasabi Radish on a white background.
Cut and whole Japanese Wasabi Radishes in a wooden box with a Japanese knife on cement.
Hands holding grated and whole Japanese Wasabi Radishes with a can of wasabi in the background.
Cut and whole Wasabi Radish arranged around a plate on a gray background.
Sliced Japanese Wasabi Radish on a white background.
Cut and whole Japanese Wasabi Radishes in a wooden box with a Japanese knife on cement.
Hands holding grated and whole Japanese Wasabi Radishes with a can of wasabi in the background.
Cut and whole Wasabi Radish arranged around a plate on a gray background.

Radish Seeds,
Japanese Wasabi

4.336 ReviewsSKU: #RD162Min. seed count: 200
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Description

(Raphanus sativus). The unmistakably pungent flavor of wasabi can clear the sinuses and invigorate the palate. The energizing flavor found in plants like true wasabi and horseradish root can also be found in the Japanese Wasabi radish. This Daikon type radish packs a wallop of tingling wasabi heat, making it a much easier-to-grow substitute for the famously finicky true wasabi root. If grown in the fall/winter, the flavor tends to be mild and sweet, but when grown in the spring/summer season it develops full, spicy heat! We love to add the peppery flavor to everything, from grated atop stir fries and sandwiches to sliced paper thin to enhance a salad or your favorite Asian recipe.

Growing Tips: The Japanese Wasabi radish grows best in cool seasons and thrives in well-drained, fertile soil. The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic, ranging from 6.0 to 6.5. This radish requires consistent moisture, so regular watering is essential, especially in warmer climates. Ensure it receives full sun to partial shade to prevent the leaves from scorching.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Raphanus sativus
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
3–6
Days to Maturity
40–50
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
4 in.
Ideal Temperature
50–75°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

The optimal time to plant Japanese Wasabi radishes is during the cooler months. In general, sowing can be done in early spring (March to April) and again in late summer to early fall (August to October). The goal is to avoid extreme heat, which can cause the radishes to bolt and become too spicy. Direct sow as soon as the soil can be worked in spring, 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost, as the seedlings tolerate light frost, and sow again in late summer for a fall crop, finishing before the ground freezes hard. If you're not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Plant the radish seeds about 1/4 inch deep and space them 2 inches apart in rows that are 6-8 inches apart. Radishes do not transplant well, so it's best to sow them directly where they are to grow. Radishes typically germinate quickly, within 3-6 days, under optimal conditions.

How to Grow

The Japanese Wasabi radish grows to maturity in about 60 days. It is important to maintain consistent watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and reduce weed growth. Regularly inspect the plants for signs of pests or disease and take action as needed. Organic fertilizers can be applied periodically to promote healthy growth. Ensure that the plants receive sufficient sunlight, but in hot climates, some afternoon shade can prevent leaf scorching.

How to Save Seeds

  • Radishes are insect-pollinated, so you'll need to isolate varieties by up to 1⁄2 mile or stagger plantings to avoid flowering at the same time.
  • Staggering can be easy because of the radish's quick maturity.
  • Allow flower stalks to shoot up and seed pods to dry on the plant before picking pods and opening by hand to remove the seeds.
  • Seeds will remain viable for up to 5 years when stored in an airtight container.

FAQ

How do I know when my Japanese Wasabi radishes are ready to harvest?

The radish is typically ready to harvest about 40 to 50 days after sowing, when the root has reached its full length and still feels firm and solid. Daikon types size up long rather than wide, so judge by length rather than girth. Left in the ground past maturity they turn pithy and woody, so pull one to check before taking the rest.

Can I grow Japanese Wasabi radishes in containers?

Yes, Japanese Wasabi radishes can be grown in containers, provided the container is deep enough to accommodate the root (at least 10 inches deep) and has adequate drainage. Regular watering and maintenance of soil moisture are crucial.

Do Japanese Wasabi radishes require any special care?

It needs regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist and should be grown in well-drained soil with a rich organic content. Additionally, protect the plants from extreme heat and ensure they receive adequate sunlight to encourage healthy growth.

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