Growing Muli At Home: Essential Tips To Keep In Mind

Muli (radish) is considered a winter special in India. It is widely used in Indian cooking and is known for its crunchy texture and slightly spicy taste. It is often added to salads, parathas, and curries. One popular dish is Muli ka Paratha, where grated radish is mixed with whole wheat flour and spices to make stuffed flatbreads. Another favorite is Muli Thepla, a Gujarati delicacy. Muli also appears in raitas, where it's combined with yoghurt, spices, and herbs to create a refreshing side dish. Some communities also make Muli pickle which is a tangy and spicy accompaniment to meals.

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There are several varieties of radishes (muli), each with distinct flavors and growth habits. For home gardening, you can choose from varieties like - White Radish which is the most common variety used in Indian cuisine. It’s white, crunchy, and slightly spicy; Red Radish which is less common in Indian kitchens but are equally easy to grow and offer a milder flavour and Black Radish which has a more intense flavour, and is used in some Indian dishes for its sharp, earthy taste.

Also Read: 7 Creative Ways To Use Up Radish Greens Or Mooli Saag

Radishes need loose, well-drained soil. Since they are root vegetables, the soil should be deep enough to allow the roots to grow straight and unimpeded. Loamy soil with good drainage works best. Sandy soil with organic matter added is a good option too. To improve soil fertility, mix in well-rotted compost or organic manure before sowing the seeds. If your soil is heavy or clayey, add sand to improve drainage.

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Best Time to Grow Muli

Radishes are a cool-season vegetable, thriving in temperatures between 10°C to 25°C. You can grow them year-round in most parts of India. For optimal growth, sow muli seeds in the cooler months, during early spring or late winter, when the temperatures are moderate. Muli can become pungent and grow poorly in very hot conditions, so avoid planting during the peak of summer.

Points To Consider

If you’re growing muli in the ground, prepare a bed that is at least 10-12 inches deep to accommodate the radish roots. For container gardening, use a pot or container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide. Raised beds are ideal for growing radishes because they ensure good drainage and keep the soil loose.

Radishes grow well in containers, but make sure to use a wide and deep pot (at least 12 inches deep) to allow the roots to spread out.

Planting Muli Seeds

Radishes are relatively easy to grow from seeds. Sow the seeds about 1/2 inch deep, and space them 1 inch apart. If planting in rows, space the rows about 6-8 inches apart. You can sow the seeds directly into the soil or containers. It’s best to do this early in the morning or late in the evening when the temperature is cooler. Once the seedlings appear, thin them out to allow space for the roots to expand. Keep a distance of about 3-4 inches between each plant.

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Caring For The Muli Plant

Muli requires consistent moisture for healthy growth, but the soil should not be waterlogged. Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist. Water more frequently during dry spells but avoid overwatering as radishes don’t like soggy roots. If possible, use drip irrigation or water at the base of the plant to prevent the leaves from getting wet, which could encourage disease.

Muli needs full sunlight for about 4-6 hours a day. While they can tolerate partial shade, the lack of sunlight can cause the radishes to become elongated or less crisp. In containers, place the pot in a location that gets ample sunlight, such as a balcony or window sill. If you are growing in the ground, make sure the bed receives enough direct sunlight.

Radishes don’t require much fertiliser, but adding a bit of organic matter can enhance their growth. Use compost or well-rotted manure when planting the seeds. This will provide the nutrients required for root development.

While radishes are fairly resistant to pests, you might encounter some problems if the conditions aren’t ideal. Keep an eye out for aphids, root maggots, and flea beetles. You can control these pests using neem oil, insecticidal soap, or by encouraging natural predators like ladybugs. Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases like powdery mildew or root rot. Ensure proper spacing between plants and avoid waterlogging.

Harvesting Muli

Muli grows quickly and can be harvested in about 25-45 days depending on the variety and growing conditions. Radishes are typically ready for harvest when their roots are about 1-2 inches in diameter, but you can pull them up earlier if you prefer smaller, tender radishes. Gently pull the radish from the soil, avoiding damage to the root. Use a garden fork if the soil is compact. Radishes can be harvested in batches. After harvesting, new radishes may continue to grow if you’ve spaced your seeds well.

Storing Muli

Radishes should be stored properly to keep them fresh. Freshly harvested radishes can be stored in the refrigerator. Cut off the tops, leaving the roots intact, and store them in a plastic bag or airtight container. For long-term storage, radishes can be pickled or dried, although they are best enjoyed fresh.