Radish (mooli) is a popular vegetable grown across India for its crisp texture, fast growth, and strong flavour. Farmers prefer radish because it matures quickly, requires less care compared to many vegetables, and gives good market returns. Choosing the right variety is very important, as it affects size, colour, taste, yield, and suitability for different seasons. India has many improved and local radish varieties that perform well in different regions. Here is an easy-to-understand guide on the major varieties of radish grown in the country.
1. Pusa Chetki
Pusa Chetki is one of the most widely grown varieties in India. It is ideal for summer and early rainy season cultivation.
Features:
Roots are long, white, smooth, and cylindrical.
Matures in about 50–55 days.
Tolerates higher temperatures better than most varieties.
Suitable for states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Bihar.
This variety is preferred by farmers for its uniform shape and good market price.
2. Pusa Himani
This is a popular radish variety for cooler regions and winter cropping.
Features:
Roots are long, white, and exceptionally crisp.
Sweet in taste with mild pungency.
Best suited for North Indian winter climate.
Matures in about 60 days.
Farmers choose it for good flavour and long root length.
3. Pusa Reshmi
Pusa Reshmi is a well-known early-maturing variety.
Features:
Smooth, white roots with shiny skin.
Matures in 45–50 days.
Good for both fresh market and household use.
Performs well in plains and mild-winter zones.
Its quick growth makes it suitable for short-duration vegetable planning.
4. Japanese White (Imported Types)
These varieties are also gaining popularity in Indian markets.
Features:
Very long, smooth roots with gentle taste.
Good storage quality.
High yield compared to local varieties.
They are mostly grown in cooler climates or controlled conditions.
5. Punjab Safed
This is a regional variety developed for Punjab’s climate.
Features:
Medium-long roots with good pungency.
Tolerant to early bolting.
Matures in about 45–50 days.
It is widely preferred in North India for its strong flavour.
6. Local Desi Varieties
Many states have their own traditional radish types with unique taste and shape.
Examples:
Bengali mooli – shorter, round or tapered, and very pungent.
Kashmiri mooli – long, white, and slightly sweet.
South Indian pink radish – medium-sized with pinkish skin.
These varieties are favored for their regional taste and culinary uses.
7. Pusa White Round
This is a round-shaped radish variety.
Features:
White, round, and smooth roots.
Ideal for salads and pickles.
Matures in 40–45 days.
Round radishes sell well in urban markets.
8. Hybrid Radish Varieties
Many seed companies offer hybrids with higher yield and uniform shape.
Common features include:
Disease resistance
Long, smooth roots
Faster growth
Better shelf-life
Hybrids are suitable for commercial cultivation where uniformity is important.
