Taproot Radish, Daikon

Daikon radish is a cool-season broadleaf cover crop, prized for its deep taproot and soil-conditioning power. It continues to show impressive results in improving yields and managing weeds—with strong agronomic returns at low per-acre cost. Fast-growing and upright, it thrives in post-harvest windows and suits compacted or nutrient-depleted soils. Breaks Up Compaction: The thick radish taproot drills deep into dense soils, loosening hardpan layers — improving water infiltration and root access. Scavenges Nutrients: As it grows, daikon pulls up nitrogen and other nutrients from lower soil profiles, helping reduce leaching and improve spring availability. Improves Soil Health: Upon winterkill or termination, decaying radish adds organic matter, feeds soil microbes, and leaves natural channels for early spring crops. Easy to Manage: In northern climates, daikon typically winterkills after several nights below 25°F, making it a low-maintenance, herbicide-free option in most rotatio