When to plant Daikon in Putnam County, IL
In Zone 5b (Putnam County), direct-sow Daikon between April 7 and April 28 for spring, after the April 21 last-frost mark. A second sowing from August 4 to August 18 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Daikon in Putnam County, IL
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.
Putnam County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 21 and the first fall frost is October 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 175 days.
At an elevation of 582 feet, Putnam County receives approximately 41.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Daikon during the growing season.
Putnam County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6-6.7
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 | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 3.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 5.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 3.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Putnam County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Daikon Planting Timeline — Putnam County, IL
Daikon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 7 | Apr 7 – Apr 28 |
| Harvest | June 2 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 |
| Fall Sowing | August 4 | Aug 4 – Aug 18 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| 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
Needs 5.8–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5b
📆 Growing Season
175 days in Putnam County
Growing Tips for Putnam 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
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Daikon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Daikon in Putnam County, IL?
Putnam County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 21. Plan your Daikon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Putnam County, IL?
Putnam County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 21 and first fall frost is October 13.
When should I plant Daikon in Putnam County, IL?
In Putnam County, IL, plant Daikon after the last frost (around April 21) and before the first frost (around October 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Putnam County, IL for Daikon?
Putnam County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Daikon grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Daikon grow in Putnam County's climate?
Yes — Daikon grows well in Putnam County's temperate climate. Putnam County averages a 175-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 21 and first frost around October 13.
Your Putnam County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Putnam County (Zone 5b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.