When to Plant Daikon in Dawson County, NE
Daikon is a large, mild Japanese radish that can grow over a foot long. It is excellent for pickling, stir-fries, and as a soil-breaking cover crop.
Dawson County, Nebraska is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 5 and the first fall frost is October 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 151 days.
At an elevation of 790 feet, Dawson County receives approximately 21.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Daikon during the growing season.
Dawson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Daikon Planting Timeline — Dawson County, NE
Daikon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 21 | Apr 21 – May 12 |
| Fall Sowing | July 25 | Jul 25 – Aug 8 |
| Harvest | June 16 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
50–70 days
Soil pH
5.8 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 5a
Growing Season
151 days
Growing Tips for Dawson County
Direct sow in late summer for fall harvest. Loosen soil deeply before planting. Thin seedlings to 6 inches apart. Harvest before hard freeze as exposed shoulders may crack.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Daikon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Daikon in Dawson County, NE?
Dawson County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of May 5. Plan your Daikon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Dawson County, NE?
Dawson County, Nebraska is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 5 and first fall frost is October 3.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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