When to plant Daikon in Cass County, IA
Cass County gardeners should plant Daikon between April 11 and May 2 in spring. With Cass County's Zone 5b climate (last frost April 25), Daikon needs 50–70 days to mature — plant by July 31 for a full harvest. A second sowing from July 31 to August 14 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Daikon in Cass County, IA
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.
Cass County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 25 and the first fall frost is October 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 167 days.
At an elevation of 1,043 feet, Cass County receives approximately 31.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Daikon during the growing season.
Cass County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.2-6.7
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 | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 1.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.9" | 1.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 2.9" | 1.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.4" | 1.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Cass County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Daikon Planting Timeline — Cass County, IA
Daikon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 11 | Apr 11 – May 2 |
| Harvest | June 6 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 |
| Fall Sowing | July 31 | Jul 31 – Aug 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
Needs 5.8–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5b
📆 Growing Season
167 days in Cass County
Growing Tips for Cass 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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Daikon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Daikon in Cass County, IA?
Cass County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 25. Plan your Daikon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Cass County, IA?
Cass County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 25 and first fall frost is October 9.
When should I plant Daikon in Cass County, IA?
In Cass County, IA, plant Daikon after the last frost (around April 25) and before the first frost (around October 9). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Cass County, IA for Daikon?
Cass 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 Cass County's climate?
Yes — Daikon grows well in Cass County's temperate climate. Cass County averages a 167-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 25 and first frost around October 9.
Your Cass County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Cass 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.