Root Vegetable

When to Plant Radishes in Michigan

The fastest vegetable in the garden — some varieties are ready in just 25 days. Perfect for impatient gardeners and kids.

The Short Answer

Michigan's cool, extended springs make radishes one of the most productive crops in the state garden — the crop grows for weeks without the bolting pressure that plagues southern gardeners.

Michigan Frost Dates

Your planting dates depend on which part of Michigan you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
Upper Peninsula 4a, 4b, 5a May 15 - Jun 5 Sep 10 - Sep 25
Northern Lower Michigan 5a, 5b May 10 - May 25 Sep 20 - Oct 5
Southern Michigan 5b, 6a, 6b Apr 25 - May 10 Oct 1 - Oct 15

Radishes Planting Schedule for Michigan

Upper Peninsula (Zones 4a, 4b, 5a)

Average last frost: May 15 - Jun 5 · Average first frost: Sep 10 - Sep 25

Direct Sow
4 wks before frost
Fall Planting
6 wks before first frost

Northern Lower Michigan (Zones 5a, 5b)

Average last frost: May 10 - May 25 · Average first frost: Sep 20 - Oct 5

Direct Sow
4 wks before frost
Fall Planting
6 wks before first frost

Southern Michigan (Zones 5b, 6a, 6b)

Average last frost: Apr 25 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 15

Direct Sow
4 wks before frost
Fall Planting
6 wks before first frost

Growing Radishes in Michigan

State-Specific Growing Tips

Direct sow from mid-April. Succession plant every 2 weeks through June. Michigan's cool summers, especially in the north, allow longer radish production than in most states. Fall sowing in August-September extends the harvest. Sandy western soils grow ideal radishes.

Recommended Varieties for Michigan

Cherry Belle, French Breakfast, Sparkler. Daikon for fall storage. MSU Extension lists radishes as one of the best beginner vegetables.

Common Challenges in Michigan

Flea beetles. Root maggots occasionally. Slow growth in cold soil delays spring harvest. The crop is remarkably trouble-free in Michigan's climate.

Growing Tips

Don't let them stay in the ground too long — they get pithy and hot. Succession plant every 2 weeks for continuous harvest.

Companion Planting

Plant radishes alongside these companions for better growth:

Peas Lettuce Carrots Spinach

The Bottom Line

Radishes can be grown successfully in Michigan with proper attention to regional frost dates and local growing conditions. Timing varies across the state — Upper Peninsula gardeners work with a last frost around May 15 - Jun 5, while Southern Michigan sees frost end around Apr 25 - May 10. Choose varieties suited to your region, amend your soil based on its specific needs, and monitor for the pests and diseases most common in your area. For exact dates based on your zip code, use our free planting date finder.

Related Guides

Radishes Growing Guide National planting guide with all states Michigan Planting Calendar All plants for Michigan Radishes in Alabama Alabama planting dates Radishes in Alaska Alaska planting dates Radishes in Arizona Arizona planting dates Radishes in Arkansas Arkansas planting dates
Note: All dates are based on NOAA 30-year Climate Normals and represent historical averages, not predictions for any specific year. Always check your local weather forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops. Learn about our data sources.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026

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