Red Radish Belsay is a high-quality hybrid developed by Rijk Zwaan, suitable for cultivation in both open and protected ground. It features high cold resistance and stress tolerance, such as low sunlight and temperature fluctuations. The vegetative period is about 55–60 days, while root crops mature in 20–22 days. The plant forms a sturdy, erect foliage up to 12 cm high, which attaches tightly to the root, ensuring ease of mechanical and manual harvesting.
Belsay radish roots have an oval shape with a diameter of about 4–5 cm, featuring a bright carmine-red color that retains saturation and gloss even after washing and long-term transportation. The internal flesh is snow-white with a homogeneous structure and balanced juice content, making it particularly appealing for fresh consumption. Due to improved leaf attachment, the radish is suitable for bundle sales and maintains its marketable appearance for a long time.
For successful cultivation of Belsay radish, it is recommended to choose fertile, well-lit areas with loose soil of neutral or slightly acidic pH. The optimal temperature for seed germination is 15–20 °C, and for plant development, 15–18 °C. At temperatures above 25 °C, root crops may become woody and develop a bitter taste. It is important to keep the soil moist, avoiding drying out and waterlogging, which contributes to obtaining tender and tasty fruits. The hybrid is especially well-suited for cultivation during cool and humid periods of spring and autumn, and demonstrates increased resistance to downy mildew during these seasons.
