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When to plant Daikon in Pacifica, CA

In Zone 10a (Pacifica), direct-sow Daikon between December 28 and January 18 for spring, after the January 18 last-frost mark. A second sowing from October 17 to October 31 extends the harvest into fall.

When to Plant Daikon in Pacifica, CA

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.

Pacifica, California is in USDA Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is January 18 and the first fall frost is December 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 328 days.

At an elevation of 277 feet, San Mateo County receives approximately 16.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 81°F, so choose short-season varieties of Daikon to ensure they mature before fall. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Daikon successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.

Pacifica, CA (Zone 10a) Year-round
328 days
Last Spring Frost January 18
328 growing days
First Fall Frost December 12

Pacifica Soil Profile

Soil Type

Loam

Soil pH

6.8-7.2

Drainage

Well Drained

Monthly Watering Guide for Daikon

Daikon needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.

Month Daikon Needs Rainfall You Supplement Action
Jan 4.3" 3.9" 0.4" 💧 Light watering
Feb 4.3" 3.4" 0.9" 💧 Light watering
Mar 4.3" 2.7" 1.6" 💧 Light watering
Apr 4.3" 1.2" 3.1" 🚿 Regular watering
May 4.3" 0.4" 3.9" 🚿 Regular watering
Jun 4.3" 0.1" 4.2" 🚿 Regular watering
Jul 4.3" 0" 4.3" 🚿 Regular watering
Aug 4.3" 0" 4.3" 🚿 Regular watering
Sep 4.3" 0.2" 4.1" 🚿 Regular watering
Oct 4.3" 0.7" 3.6" 🚿 Regular watering
Nov 4.3" 1.4" 2.9" 🚿 Regular watering
Dec 4.3" 2.9" 1.4" 💧 Light watering

Water needs are for active growing months only (Jan–Dec in San Mateo County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.

Daikon Planting Timeline — Pacifica, CA

Daikon Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Direct Sow December 28 Dec 28 – Jan 18
Harvest February 22 Feb 22 – Mar 22
Fall Sowing October 17 Oct 17 – Oct 31

Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
January Direct Sow
February Harvest
March Harvest
April
May
June
July
August
September
October Fall Sowing
November
December Direct Sow

Growing Conditions

☀️ Sun

Full Sun (6-8+ hours)

💧 Water

Moderate — regular watering

📅 Days to Maturity

50–70 days

🧪 Soil pH

Needs 5.8–7 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 10a

📆 Growing Season

328 days in San Mateo County

Growing Tips for Pacifica

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

  • Hyssop

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

When should I plant Daikon in Pacifica, CA?

In Pacifica, CA, plant Daikon after the last frost (around January 18) and before the first frost (around December 12). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is Pacifica, CA for Daikon?

Pacifica sits in USDA Zone 10a. Daikon grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Daikon grow in Pacifica's climate?

Yes — Daikon grows well in Pacifica's temperate climate. Pacifica averages a 329-day frost-free season, with last frost around January 18 and first frost around December 12.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for San Mateo County, CA. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: June 2026.