Loba radish: cultivation and variety description with photo

One of the most common root crops, which is widely used in Russia, is Loba radish. And this is not surprising. Despite the fact that the plant was obtained in China, it grows on all types of soil, regardless of the climatic conditions of the region. At the same time, the root crop is endowed with an unusually sweet-spicy taste and piquant aroma. But, unfortunately, not all gardeners know how to grow this plant. We will describe the rules of agricultural technology in this article.

Description of radish

Loba radish is an early ripening vegetable crop. The growing season from sowing seeds to harvesting is 50-70 days. Note: Loba is not a root variety. This name is used for several radishes of Chinese origin.

The shape of Loba fruits depends on the plant variety, they can be:

• round;
• oval;
• cylindrical.

In this case, the skin of root crops can be white, green, purple, red. However, their top always remains intensely green.

The average weight of one radish varies from 0.500 gr. up to 1 kg. There were cases when this figure reached 2 kg.

In terms of taste, Loba radish resembles an ordinary radish. Its pulp has a piquant sweet-spicy taste suitable for fresh consumption, in the preparation of hot dishes, pickling and pickling.

Root value

A distinctive feature of the Loba radish is that in addition to its attractive appearance and unusual taste, it has healing properties. When consumed fresh, root vegetables have the following positive effects:

1. The growth of pathogens is reduced.
2. Toxins and excess water are removed from the body.
3. Improves digestion.
4. Stones dissolve in human organs.
5. Reduces cholesterol levels.
6. Increases immunity.

Besides, Loba radish does not excite the central nervous system. Therefore, it is suitable for the elderly.

Growing

All varieties of Chinese Loba radish are unpretentious crops. Root crops can grow and develop in any type of soil, temperature and light. The only thing you should pay attention to when growing radish is the timing of sowing seeds.

Loba is sown in two stages:

• planting seeds at the end of April;
• sowing radish from mid-June to early July.

The first option is carried out to obtain an early harvest, which will be used in the summer and autumn season. The second stage involves long-term storage of radish in the winter. If you do not comply with such restrictions on the timing of planting, the plant will throw out the inflorescence.

Loba is a moisture-loving plant, so the place of its cultivation should be with elevated groundwater. At the same time, the best predecessors are:

• cucumbers;
• potato;
• garlic;
• legumes;
• dill;
• bow.

Loba's worst performance was observed when the plant was planted 2 years in a row in the same place. You should not sow radishes in those places where oilseeds, rapeseed and mustard grew before.

The planting scheme is 45x10 cm, with a seed depth of 1.5-2 cm. From 3 to 5 pieces are laid in one hole. planting material.

Features of care

After planting, Loba radishes will need time for simple care. Subject to all the conditions of agricultural technology, the likelihood of plant shooting and fruit cracking will decrease.

So, consider the requirements for care:

1. Thinning. After 2 leaves are formed on the plants, one strong seedling is left in the hole, all the rest are removed.
2. Water. As mentioned above, Loba radish is a moisture-loving plant. Therefore, in order not to form bitterness and hardness of fruits, soil irrigation should be carried out at least 2 times a week.
3. Weeding. In order for the plant to receive the required amount of nutrients, weeds must be removed as they appear.
4. Feeding. For a good development of radish, it is recommended to apply nitrogen and mineral fertilizers to the soil. The total number of top dressings for the entire growing season should be at least 3 times.

By taking such care of the plant, it will be possible to achieve not only high quality yields, but also prevent the development of diseases.

Pros and cons

Loba root, like any other vegetable crop, has its advantages and disadvantages. Among the advantages of a plant, gardeners distinguish the following qualities:

• precocity;
• a small amount of radish oil;
• taste and useful qualities of fruits;
• long distance transportation;
• long shelf life.

Also has good resistance to diseases.

The disadvantages of vegetable crops include:

• demanding for frequent watering;
• weak immunity to pests.

The plant has no more significant flaws.

Pests and diseases

If the agricultural technique is carried out correctly, the Loba radish is practically not affected by diseases characteristic of cruciferous plants. However, there is still a risk of disease. According to gardeners, the most common diseases that harm radishes are:

• fusarium;
• black leg;
• bacteriosis;
• quila.

From pests that love to eat plants, there are:

• cabbage white;
• rapeseed bug;
• cruciferous fleas.

All of the above diseases and pests can destroy the crop. To prevent this, it is recommended to disinfect the soil with special preparations before sowing seeds. During an insect invasion, the plant must be sprayed with tobacco infusion or sprinkled with wood ash. Such manipulations are carried out at least 3 times, with an interval of 5-6 days.

Harvest and storage of crops

Loba is usually harvested 2 months after seed germination. Root crops of early sowing are collected selectively. Plants that are intended for winter storage are dug up all in a row at a time.At the same time, harvesting should be carried out in dry, clear weather, before the onset of the first frost.

After all the root crops are dug up, their tops are cut off. This manipulation is carried out with a knife or hatchet. At the same time, the tops must be removed so that a 2 cm petiole remains.

To keep the taste and useful qualities of root crops for a long time, it is recommended to store them in a cellar at a temperature of +2-3 degrees, with an air humidity of 80-90%. The best solution would be to use wooden boxes.

As you can see, the agricultural technique for growing Loba is not so complicated. However, it is of great importance for the growth and development of the root crop. By following the above care, every summer resident will receive an excellent harvest of tasty and he althy fruits of Chinese radish.

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