Variety performance review
Trophy Radish in the Corn Belt Core.
- Good
- Multiple — Daikon-type forage radish
- 60–80 days to root maturity
- Organic-approved
Regional strengths
Trophy radish is the most widely-deployed forage radish in Corn Belt food plots — fast establishment, heavy summer foliage that deer browse aggressively, and tap roots that improve soil structure as they decompose after winter kill. Strong dual-purpose (food plot + cover crop) value.
Regional weaknesses
Trophy radish is an annual that winter-kills below approximately 20°F sustained — does not persist into spring. Tap roots can rot rapidly in February / March creating a brief odor issue. Brassica disease pressure builds in continuous brassica rotations.
Agronomic ratings
Drought tolerance
fair
Standability
good
Emergence
excellent
Winter hardiness
fair
Food-plot ratings
Palatability
good
Persistence
fair
Establishment
easy
Attraction timing: Late October through hard freeze — tops are heavily browsed; roots are pulled in late season
Best for
- August-planted Corn Belt food plots
- cover-crop-and-food-plot dual purpose
Not recommended for
- spring-persistent food plot needs (winter kills out)
Best soil types
loam, silt loam
Seeding rate
5–8 lb/acre pure stand; 3–5 lb/acre in a blend
Farmer notes
Trophy is widely promoted by NDA and food plot media; community reports consistent on establishment ease.
Data quality & sources
Quality: community-reported · Last updated 2024.