my LocalPlanting

When to Plant Watermelon Radish in Alma, New York (14708)

Location

Alma, New York

ZIP Code

14708

USDA Zone

5b

Last Frost

Saturday, April 25, 2026

📅 Your 2026 Planting Dates

Direct Sow Outdoors

Saturday, March 28, 2026

Based on last frost Saturday, April 25, 2026 · Zone 5b

Pro tip: Sow Watermelon Radish directly outdoors 4 weeks before your last frost date.

🌿 Plant Details

Scientific Name Raphanus sativus
Days to Maturity 60 days
Mature Height 6-10"
Spread 4"

☀️ Growing Requirements

☀️

Sun

Full Sun (6-8 hours)

💧

Water

Regular (1-2 inches/week)

↔️

Spacing

4" apart

🌱

Planting Depth

0.5" deep

Seeds typically germinate in 3-7 days

Ready to Plant Watermelon Radish in Alma?

Get your seeds now so they're ready by Saturday, March 28, 2026.

* Affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

🤝 Good Companions

CarrotSpinachLettucePea

⚠️ Avoid Planting Near

Hyssop
🤝

Full Companion Planting Guide for Watermelon Radish

See which plants help Watermelon Radish thrive, which to keep away, and raised bed layout tips →

🛠️ Supplies You'll Need

* Affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

🌾 Seed Saving Guide

🟢 Easy
✅ Open-pollinated — seeds grow true to parent

When to Harvest Seed

Allow plants to bolt and seed pods to fully dry and turn tan on the stalk.

Processing

Thresh dried pods, winnow to remove chaff, dry seeds 1 week before storing.

Seed Viability

Up to 5 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.

Pro Tip

Will cross with other radish varieties — isolate by 1000 feet to maintain the distinctive interior color.

🪴

Raised Bed Planting Guides

A 4×8 bed fits 9 per sq ft of Watermelon Radish. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Watermelon Radish in Alma, New York? +

In Alma (Zone 5b), direct sow Watermelon Radish outdoors around Saturday, March 28, 2026.

What is the last frost date for Alma, New York? +

The average last spring frost date for Alma, New York (ZIP 14708) is around Saturday, April 25, 2026. This is based on NOAA climate normals for USDA Zone 5b.

How long does Watermelon Radish take to grow? +

Watermelon Radish typically matures in about 60 days from direct sowing. In Alma, that means you can expect harvest around Saturday, March 28, 2026 plus 60 days.

Should I start Watermelon Radish indoors or direct sow in New York? +

Watermelon Radish does best when direct sown outdoors. In Alma, sow directly around Saturday, March 28, 2026.

Other Plants for Alma

Growing Watermelon Radish in Zone 5b

Watermelon Radish (Raphanus sativus) is a popular garden vegetable. In Alma, New York, which is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, you should direct sow seeds around Saturday, March 28, 2026.

Your average last frost date is Saturday, April 25, 2026. Watermelon Radish grows well when direct sown, as it doesn't transplant well or germinates quickly outdoors.