When to Plant Daikon in Duval County, FL
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.
Duval County, Florida is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 24 and the first fall frost is November 29, giving you a growing season of approximately 278 days.
At an elevation of 337 feet, Duval County receives approximately 56.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 102°F, so Daikon may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Daikon will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Daikon root diseases.
Duval County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5-5.8
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.
Soil Compatibility in Duval County
How your county's soil matches Daikon's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.0–5.8) is more acidic than Daikon prefers (5.8–7.0). Add garden lime to raise pH.
Soil Texture
Sandy soil in Duval County warms quickly in spring but drains fast. Daikon will need more frequent watering and regular compost additions to retain nutrients.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is low (1.4%). Add 2-3 inches of compost before planting Daikon.
How to Plant Daikon
Fall planting: Sow 8 weeks before your first frost date for a fall harvest.
Succession Planting Daikon
Sow every 5.7 weeks. Last sowing by Sep 20 to harvest before frost.
For a dedicated fall crop, sow by Oct 04.
Plant Water Budget
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 | — | 2.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 4.3" | 2.8" | 1.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Mar | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 8.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 7.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 8.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 6.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 4.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 4.3" | 2.6" | 1.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 2.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Nov in Duval County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Daikon Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Daikon Planting Timeline — Duval County, FL
Daikon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | February 3 | Feb 3 – Feb 24 |
| Harvest | March 31 | Mar 31 – Apr 28 |
| Fall Sowing | October 4 | Oct 4 – Oct 18 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Direct Sow |
| March | Harvest |
| April | Harvest |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · Only during dry spells
📅 Days to Maturity
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.8–7 · Your soil: too_acidic
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
278 days in Duval County
Growing Tips for Daikon in Duval County
Direct sow Daikon outdoors after February 24 in Duval County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Sandy soil in Duval County dries quickly — mulch Daikon with 2-3 inches of straw and water deeply 2-3 times per week rather than lightly every day.
With summer highs reaching 102°F in Duval County, provide afternoon shade for Daikon and water deeply in the morning.
Common pests for Daikon in this region include cabbage worm and flea beetles. Use row covers early in the season and inspect plants weekly.
General growing tips
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
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Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Daikon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Daikon in Duval County, FL?
Duval County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of February 24. Plan your Daikon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Duval County, FL?
Duval County, Florida is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 24 and first fall frost is November 29.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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