Radish

Radish is a type of herbaceous plant that belongs to the mustard family. It originates from Southeastern Asia, where cultivation started 2700 years BC. Ancient Egyptians were also fond of radishes. Cultivation of radishes started even before building of pyramids. Radish is equally popular today. It prefers cooler climate and grows quickly under appropriate conditions (enough sun, fertile soil and moisture). People cultivate radish as a source of food. Other than that, radish has application in medicine and in the industry of fuels.

The higher productivity in these countries is due to the coverage of maximum area under hybrids where as OP varieties occupied major area in India and pumpkin are being cultivated by resource poor farmers through self-saved seed. The demand of hybrid seed among farmers is increasing because of earliness, uniformity and higher yield which make pumpkin cultivation more profitable than traditional/open pollinated varieties.

The basic seed of parental lines should be obtained from the institute/university where from the hybrid have been developed.

•  Radish contains dietary fibers and minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, copper and manganese.

•  Radish is rich source of vitamin C and vitamins of the B group.

•  Radish was used in treatment of kidney stones.

•  Radish can be used to relieve stomach ache, to facilitate digestion and elimination of the excess body water and to regulate blood pressure.