RAT TAIL RADISH SEEDS

Raphanus sativus ssp. atropurpureum

ORGANIC

The number of times that I have planted “Rat Tail Radish" seeds and had my garden graced with nothing more than the plain green seed pods of the common radish is almost embarrassing. Which is not to say that common radish seed pods aren't worth eating, because they are! But what I've wanted to grow is the crazy-long purple pods of botanical lore. The Rat Tail Radish was described by Vilmorin in the 19th century, and contemporary gardening books have made mention of these elusive long purple pods, but no seed that I had received had ever produced said pods in my garden until now.

The parent seeds for these came from Frank Morton and indeed produced plants with gorgeous glossy purple pods that are fabulously crunchy and spicy and perfect for dipping into hummus or cutting up into salads. Full sun will produce the darkest purple pods. Not a single plant produced plain green pods in my garden. Swoon.

Due to the incredible scarcity of this seed gardeners should be very dilligent about maintaining the integrity of this strain. To save seed, do not allow any other nearby radish varieties to flower at the same time as the Rat Tail Radish. Consider bagging individual bolting stems with large drawstring organza bags to help prevent cross pollination. Save seeds only from those pods that are true to type.

Sow these seeds outdoors after the last frost, about 1/4" deep and 6" apart in good garden soil in full sun. Water frequently until germination, and water at least daily until seedlings are established. Frank Morton suggests a trellis for these very tall plants, as well as thinning them to 12" apart. If you choose to thin to this distance, do try to transplant culled seedlings. Fertilize transplants with dilute seaweed extract and mulch. Water frequently until well-rooted.

Will self-sow if allowed, and the errant plants make delicious salad in early spring and late autumn. The plants are also attractive, with dark purple stems, pink flowers and large flouncy foliage. So lovely.

Packet contains at least 30 seeds.