🍠 Can I Plant Radish in Madison, WI?
Radish thrives in cool weather and can be planted now for a fall harvest. Sow seeds soon — they'll be ready around Aug 21–Aug 29, well before the average first frost around Nov 14.
Growing Radish in Madison
Madison's Zone 5a climate between two lakes gives it roughly 152 frost-free days. The lakes Mendota and Monona slightly moderate temperatures, but late spring frosts remain a real risk into early May. The local university culture has fueled a strong gardening and sustainable agriculture community. Start warm-season crops indoors in late March, use row covers, and embrace cold-hardy varieties to make the most of Madison's short but rewarding season.
In Madison (last frost around May 7), radish can go out around March — approximately 6 weeks before the last expected frost, making it an early-season opportunity.
Radish thrives between 40°F and 65°F. It tolerates temperatures as low as 32°F, making it a candidate for early spring planting before the last frost date. Expect 22–30 days from transplant to first harvest. One of the fastest vegetables. Spring or fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I plant radish in Madison, WI?
In Madison (last frost around May 7), radish can go out around March — approximately 6 weeks before the last expected frost, making it an early-season opportunity.
What is the USDA hardiness zone for Madison?
Madison, WI is in USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 5a. The last expected spring frost is around May 7, and the first fall frost arrives around October 7. This zone classification helps you understand which perennials survive winter and when annual vegetables can safely go outdoors.
Is it safe to plant radish outside in Madison right now?
That depends on the current weather forecast. Radish needs temperatures above 32°F (ideally 40–65°F) to thrive. CanIPlant checks your real 7-day forecast and any active frost alerts to give you a live YES, NO, or WAIT answer — just enter your ZIP code.
Can I grow radish in Madison 2026?
Yes — Radish grows well in Madison, WI. With a Zone 5a climate and a growing season of ~153 days, Madison is well-suited for cool-season crops like radish. As a frost-tolerant crop, radish can even go out a few weeks before the last frost date.
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