Forage Radish

Raphanus sativus

Cool season annual brassica with a single massive taproot (12-20+ in. long). Adapted to a wide range of soils; intolerant of waterlogged soils. Rapid germination and growth. Long taproot reaches deep into the soil profile to increase topsoil nitrogen and nutrient fertility the following spring. Use in crop rotations to penetrate compacted soils and improve water infiltration, soil aeration and the rooting depth of successive crops. Dense canopy suppresses weeds when planted in a monoculture. Also use in food plots. Grazing animals eat the leafy tops and the taproot.