Are you a fan of the pungent flavor of Wasabi? While it may be challenging to cultivate true Wasabia Japonica outside of Japan, there’s an alternative that’s equally delicious and easier to grow – horseradish (Armoracia rusticana). In fact, most of what we consider ‘wasabi’ in sushi restaurants is actually a mixture of horseradish root with green clay. But growing your own horseradish at home offers more than just a flavorful condiment.
For instance, it can be used to add zest to various dishes, serve as a natural insect repellent, and even help to detoxify the soil in your garden. So, if you’re looking for a new culinary adventure or simply want to diversify your gardening endeavors, consider planting horseradish at home.
Horseradish Plant Info:
The sweet potato thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9. For optimal growth, it prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, deep enough to support a robust root system. Before planting, work the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches and incorporate 2 ounces of all-purpose fertilizer per square yard. A full sun to partial shade environment is ideal. Timing-wise, plant sweet potato sets two to three weeks prior to the average last frost date in spring.
Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart within rows, with a foot between each row. For planting, aim for a depth of 4 to 5 inches and angle the sets at 45 degrees. Sweet potatoes get along famously with companion plants like potato, yam, plum, rhubarb, sweet potato, grape, strawberry, and asparagus. However, it’s best to keep them away from tomatoes, which can hinder their growth. Regular watering is essential, providing about 1 to 2 inches of water per week.
Fertilize with a potassium- and phosphorus-rich compound, but low in nitrogen, around four to eight weeks after planting. Some common issues you might encounter include brittle root, bacterial leaf spot, cercospora leaf spot, white rust, ramularia leaf spot, mosaic disease, cabbage looper, flea beetles, crucifer weevil, and diamondback moth. Harvest your sweet potatoes when the tops have frozen back in the fall, typically around 140 to 160 days after planting.
Reasons to Grow Horseradish
Horseradish root is a versatile and easy-to-grow crop that offers a multitude of uses beyond its well-known application in wasabi. Its natural decongestant properties make it an effective remedy for sinus issues, while its pungent flavor adds depth to various condiments like cocktail sauce. For many, roast beef isn’t complete without the tangy kick horseradish provides.
Beyond its culinary uses, horseradish is a valuable addition to fermented foods like kimchi and mustard, imbuing them with a bold, fiery character. When incorporated into homemade bread and butter pickles, it adds a satisfying contrast to their natural sweetness. As an added benefit, horseradish can be used as a preventative measure against seasonal illnesses and a treatment for sinus congestion, making it a valuable addition to home remedies like the Four Thieves Vinegar Tonic or fire cider.
While its medicinal properties are well-documented, horseradish also has the ability to repel pests when used as a companion plant, providing an added layer of protection for more valuable crops.
Horseradish Varieties
For those looking to cultivate horseradish in their own gardens, it’s essential to know that there are only a limited number of varieties available for planting. These varieties can be categorized based on the characteristics of their leaves, which can be either smooth or feature a crinkled texture.
Common Horseradish
Horseradish’s common variant, known as Maliner Kren, boasts crinkled foliage. Its distinguishing feature lies in the size of its roots, which are often larger than those of other varieties. While this trait is an asset for many gardeners, it does come with a drawback: the increased susceptibility to certain diseases.
Bohemian Horseradish
One distinctive feature of Bohemian horseradish is its leaf structure, which is remarkably smooth to the touch. When it comes to commercial varieties, two popular strains are often encountered: Swiss and Sass. While the roots of this type may not reach the same size as those of more common horseradish, they do boast enhanced disease resistance, making them a valuable choice for many growers.
Crossed Horseradish
To enhance disease resilience in commercial cultivation, researchers are creating new hybrid varieties of horseradish. One notable example is Big Top Western horseradish, developed by the University of Illinois. This variety boasts large roots and impressive immunity against diseases. Nevertheless, it does feature a cork-like exterior on the root that may require peeling before consumption.
How to Plant Horseradish
For those looking to cultivate horseradish, there are two primary methods: seed germination and propagation through root cuttings. To start with seeds, one must first acquire high-quality, disease-free seeds that have been specifically bred for their flavor and pungency. Once acquired, sow the seeds in a well-draining soil with adequate moisture, allowing them to sprout and mature over time.
Alternatively, one can propagate horseradish by taking cuttings from established roots, which ensures a head start on growth and allows for more precise control over the resulting plant’s characteristics.
Method 1: Starting Horseradish from Seed
To successfully start horseradish from seed, follow the same general guidelines as you would for other annual vegetable varieties. Begin by starting the seeds indoors under controlled lighting conditions to give them a head start on the growing season. Alternatively, you can directly sow the seeds outdoors when the soil temperature has reached a comfortable 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
Regardless of which method you choose, gently press the seeds about one-quarter inch into your chosen planting medium. Maintain consistent moisture levels, but avoid overwatering, until the seedlings are well-established and strong.
Method 2: Starting Horseradish in Pots from Root Cuttings
Starting a new horseradish plant from root cuttings indoors offers a reliable alternative to seeds, particularly for those in regions with short growing seasons. When beginning this process, I prefer using one-gallon pots as it eliminates the need for multiple re-potting sessions before transplanting outside. To get started, fill your pot with loose potting mix and insert the root cutting 2 inches into the soil, covering it completely.
Ensure the crown side, usually wider, faces upwards to facilitate faster sprouting. Maintain a consistent moisture level in the soil, but avoid overwatering, until you’re ready to transplant the plant outside. If you plan to keep your horseradish in containers for the entire growing season, consider using large pots that are at least 18 inches deep and wide, as this will promote healthy root growth.
Method 3: Starting Horseradish in the Ground from Root Cuttings
As a resident of USDA planting zone 7, I’ve found that direct planting horseradish in early spring is ideal. The soil typically warms up to around 45ºF in March or early April, making it the perfect time to plant root cuttings. To ensure optimal growth, start by soaking any dehydrated cuttings in water for a few hours before planting. Before planting, prepare your garden bed by loosening the top 12 inches of soil and an additional 18 inches out from the center.
If your soil is compacted or heavy clay, consider adding well-aged compost to improve its texture and drainage. This will help prevent waterlogged soil and promote healthy growth. Plant each root cutting about 2-3 inches deep, with the head facing upwards (where leaves will emerge). When planting multiple cuttings, consider orienting their crowns in the same direction to achieve evenly spaced leaf growth at around three feet apart.
Cover the root cutting with soil, leveling it with the surrounding ground. Water thoroughly to stimulate growth, and maintain consistent moisture levels until the plants reach about a foot high. Regularly remove weeds as they appear, ensuring your horseradish plants have a strong foundation for establishment.
Tip 1: When to Plant Horseradish
Horseradish seeds can be initiated indoors at the beginning of winter, allowing for a head start before being transplanted outside when the risk of frost has passed. Alternatively, seeds can be directly sown into their permanent location once the soil temperature reaches an optimal range of 45°F to 75°F. This is typically between March and mid-summer, depending on your specific planting zone. For root cuttings, early spring or fall are the most suitable times for propagation.
Not only do these periods provide a ideal window for harvesting roots from existing plants to use as starters, but they also facilitate rapid growth due to the cooler temperatures.
Tip 2: Horseradish Zone Hardiness
Horseradish is a hardy perennial that thrives in USDA planting zones 3-9. Its growth is influenced by the climate it’s planted in, with colder winters actually benefiting its development. The plant enters dormancy when exposed to harsh winter conditions, which enhances its pungency. In warmer climates, it does well in areas receiving at least 6 hours of morning sunlight and partial afternoon shade, allowing it to regulate its growth.
Tip 3: Light Requirements for Horseradish
Horseradish thrives in well-defined light conditions. In cooler climates, direct sunlight is ideal, while in warmer regions, a balance of morning sun and afternoon partial shade suits the plant best. When starting horseradish indoors, a south-facing windowsill or grow lights under daylights are suitable alternatives for providing sufficient illumination.
Tip 4: Soil Requirements for Horseradish
Horseradish is a low-maintenance perennial that can thrive in a wide range of soil types, as long as the soil isn’t waterlogged. Established plants are surprisingly drought-tolerant, but for optimal root production and easy harvesting, it’s best to grow them in deep, well-prepared garden soil.
Unlike some other root vegetables, horseradish doesn’t require a specific type of soil to produce robust roots.
In fact, too much nitrogen can actually cause the plant to prioritize leaf growth over root development, which is why it’s crucial to strike a balance when fertilizing. To encourage healthy root production, consider the following strategies:
• Fertilize your horseradish beds at least six months prior to planting.
• Plant in moderately fertile soil that hasn’t been over-fertilized with nitrogen-rich compounds.
• Time your planting to coincide with a period when other plants have depleted excess nitrogen, like after corn has matured.
Tip 5: Ways to Plant Horseradish
To cultivate horseradish, treat it similarly to other annual garden vegetables by planting in prepared garden beds during fall or early spring seasons. As the root matures, harvest in late autumn. Alternatively, you can establish a permanent location for the plant, such as an edible landscape plot, where it will serve as both a natural pest deterrent and an attractive ornamental edging.
Additionally, horseradish thrives as a container plant, requiring a deep and wide vessel that allows its extensive root system to develop freely.
Tip 6: Expected Germination Time for Horseradish
Horseradish growth can be rapid when propagated through root cuttings. In optimal scenarios, leaves can emerge within a few days, and by the end of a month, they can reach heights of over a foot. On the other hand, seed-grown horseradish may require a slightly longer gestation period, typically taking a few weeks to germinate.
To achieve the best possible results, it’s recommended that seedlings are allowed to mature in ideal conditions for around 10-12 weeks before being hardened off and transplanted outdoors.
Tip 7: Horseradish Spacing
For annual plantings, space horseradish 3 feet apart, leaving about 1.5 feet of clearance on all sides. This allows for optimal growth and prevents overcrowding. When cultivating horseradish as a perennial, it’s crucial to consider its invasive nature. A buffer zone should be maintained between the horseradish and surrounding plants to prevent encroachment.
As the plant grows and begins to spread into this designated area, simply dig up any new roots that have emerged around the perimeter to maintain control over its size.
How to Care for Horseradish
While horseradish can be relatively straightforward to cultivate, the approach may vary slightly depending on your goals. If you’re cultivating it specifically for its annual root harvests or as a perennial companion plant, the care requirements will have some subtle nuances.
Method 1: Growing Horseradish as an Annual
Horseradish, being a perennial plant, has its root as the edible part. To maintain this crop, growers typically dig up most of the root in the fall and replant it the following year by leaving a section of the root behind in the soil. This method allows for continuous production without having to start anew each time. For those who opt to rotate their horseradish annually for pest and disease management, storing cuttings from healthy plants with no visible defects is crucial.
These stored roots can be used as seed stock for future harvests. Notably, this approach involves replanting new horseradish plants yearly, similar to growing crops like garlic or winter wheat. To ensure successful establishment, maintain consistent soil moisture until the plant becomes dormant, typically due to cold temperatures in winter. In the spring, keep the soil moist until the plant is actively growing.
As with other garden vegetables, horseradish can quickly deplete soil organic matter and minerals. To address this, apply compost annually in the fall. Additionally, if your soil lacks sufficient minerals, consider adding a light sprinkling of rock phosphate each year to replenish these essential nutrients. Finally, regular weeding is vital for optimal production.
Method 2: Growing Horseradish as a Perennial
When cultivating perennial horseradish as a companion plant, its primary role is to repel pests from more valuable crops like fruit trees. However, it’s essential to periodically prune the plant every couple of years to control its spread and prevent it from becoming invasive. This can be done by uprooting any side growth around the main roots, which can otherwise grow into new plants if left unchecked.
One of the benefits of perennial horseradish is that it places relatively low demands on the soil. As the leaves die back to the ground and remain in place during winter, they act as a natural mulch, decomposing and adding nutrients back to the soil without creating nitrogen overload. To further enhance soil health, consider adding a couple of inches of mulch in the fall every other year.
Instead of weeding around perennial horseradish, it’s more effective to chop weeds down as they appear and leave them to decompose under the plant. This adds organic matter to the soil and helps smother new weeds from germinating. Additionally, be sure to remove any flowering weeds or seed heads to reduce weed pressure in future years.
Possible Problems Growing Horseradish
While horseradish is generally low-maintenance and easy to cultivate, there are some factors to consider when planting in large quantities. When grouping multiple plants together, the risk of pest and disease issues increases significantly. However, for most home growers, a small number of plants is sufficient to meet their needs, which means the risk of problems remains relatively low on the homestead.
Pests
While cultivating horseradish at home, it’s common to encounter pests that target its leaves. Fortunately, other members of the brassica family like cabbage, turnip, radish, and mustard are often preferred alternatives for these pests. However, it’s still essential to keep an eye out for potential issues, as unwanted visitors can sometimes surprise you.
Imported Cabbage Moth Larva
While small white moths with distinctive black spots on their wings may seem harmless as they flit from plant to plant, spreading pollen and pollinating with abandon, they can actually cause significant damage to cabbage crops. The tiny eggs they lay turn into voracious caterpillars that feast on brassica leaves, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.
While horseradish is generally not their preferred snack, you may still find these pesky pests lurking among your plants from time to time.
To keep them under control, manual removal of the larvae and feeding them to your chickens or drowning them in water is often effective. As a last resort, spraying neem oil on horseradish leaves during the mating season may be necessary.
Imported Crucifer Weevil
The Imported Crucifer Weevil’s adult form is a distinctive metallic blue-black colour, measuring approximately 1/10 of an inch in length. However, it’s the grub-like larvae that pose a significant threat to horseradish crops. These white larvae bore into the roots, affecting both quantity and quality at harvest time. To address this issue, consider using insecticides as a targeted solution.
Alternatively, growers can employ a cultural approach by planting horseradish as an annual in different locations each year, thereby disrupting the weevil’s life cycle and keeping its population under control.
Horseradish Flea Beetle
Flea beetles, despite their small size, have a noticeable impact on plant leaves. They create characteristic buckeye holes, but it’s usually the aesthetic appeal that suffers more than the plant’s overall productivity. However, if the damage exceeds 20% of the leaf surface, insecticides might be necessary to prevent further harm.
To deter these pesky insects, consider using Diatomaceous Earth, a natural substance that can be sprinkled on the leaves to effectively repel them.
Alternatively, planting trap plants like radishes and turnips nearby and then utilizing a vacuum to suck up flea beetles can prove an effective method for controlling populations and minimizing damage.
Diseases
Horseradish plants, despite their pungent flavor and versatility in cooking, are susceptible to several diseases that can cause significant harm. Some of these diseases have the potential to severely impact plant health, requiring prompt attention and proper management to prevent further damage.
Turnip Mosaic Virus
The scourge of turnip mosaic, a debilitating condition affecting horseradish plants, manifests as intricate patterns of yellow rings and mottling on the leaves. Unfortunately, there is no established treatment for this viral affliction. To mitigate the impact, it’s essential to cultivate resistant varieties of horseradish if the disease is prevalent in your region or has been detected in your soil.
White-rust
White rust, a fungal disease, tends to target plants that are consistently waterlogged or densely planted together. The infection manifests as discoloration in the affected areas, accompanied by the formation of white powder-like pustules on the plant’s surface.
To tackle this issue, fungicides can be employed as an effective treatment.
Furthermore, preventative measures include ensuring good soil drainage, promoting healthy air circulation, and opting for disease-resistant horseradish varieties to minimize the risk of infection.
Bacterial Leaf Spot
Bacterial Leaf Spot typically manifests as dark green spots on leaves that gradually develop into brown lesions. To effectively manage this disease, consider using fungicides or copper-based solutions. Notably, the incidence of Bacterial Leaf Spot tends to peak during cooler temperature ranges, specifically between 50°F and 75°F.
It is essential to regularly inspect your plants’ leaves during these periods and take prompt action to prevent the spread of the disease and maintain plant productivity.
Companion Planting with Horseradish
Horseradish is remarkable for its ability to thrive in isolation, defying the typical need for social interaction found in many other plants. This unique characteristic makes it an effective guardian plant, capable of repelling pests and protecting surrounding vegetation from harm. As such, incorporating horseradish into your garden can be a valuable strategy for maintaining a healthy ecosystem, particularly in areas where pest pressure is high.
Best Companions for Horseradish
Horseradish is an excellent natural deterrent against various garden pests, making it a valuable addition to your gardening arsenal. Here are some creative ways to use horseradish as a general pest preventative. Firstly, pair it with potatoes and other root vegetables that benefit from similar soil conditions. Just ensure that the horseradish has sufficient space to grow without competing with its companions for nutrients. This harmonious combination can also improve soil health and structure.
Next, plant horseradish near plants that are susceptible to aphid attacks, such as rosemary, lavender, or chamomile. Aphids may not be the most destructive pests, but they can still cause significant damage if left unchecked. By placing horseradish in pots near affected areas, you can create a barrier against these tiny invaders. Start by using soapy water to eliminate the aphids, then let the horseradish take over and prevent future infestations.
Horseradish is also an excellent companion for perennial crops like fruit trees, berry bushes, strawberries, rhubarb, and asparagus. Its roots are naturally repellent to voles, moles, mice, and other airborne pests, making it a great general pest-preventative for these long-lived plants. Just be sure to harvest the roots regularly to keep the plant in check. Finally, use horseradish to protect long-stem annual crops like sweet potatoes and pumpkins that are susceptible to various pest attacks.
Planting horseradish around these plants or setting container plantings among them can help deter potential pests and reduce aerial pressure.
Worst Companions for Horseradish
When cultivating horseradish, it’s crucial to avoid interspersing it with plants from the brassica family. Crops like cabbage, turnips, kale, radish, and mustard can create a precarious situation for your horseradish. These crops typically remain in the ground for several months before being harvested, during which time pests may be drawn to the lingering residues.
This can ultimately lead to an infestation of these unwanted visitors on your established horseradish plants, causing significant damage.
Harvesting Horseradish
Get ready to unlock the secrets of your garden’s bounty! Use those carefully cultivated roots to nourish both body and soul with their rich, earthy goodness. Whether you’re whipping up a hearty soup or adding some natural flair to your meals, these roots are the perfect addition to any kitchen.
Harvesting Annual Horseradish
When it comes to harvesting horseradish, timing is everything. The ideal time is typically during mid-to-late fall when the flavor has had a chance to mature and develop its signature pungency. For those who opt for an annual cultivation approach, careful excavation of the entire root system is crucial to prevent any remaining fragments from sprouting anew.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to regenerate horseradish in the same location year after year, simply trim off a few inches of the root and reburial at a depth of 2-3 inches will suffice. Alternatively, consider transplanting the root to a new site for next season’s crop.
Harvesting Perennial Horseradish
To maintain the health and structure of your perennials, it’s essential to occasionally remove the side shoots that can give the plant an invasive reputation. While these shoots might not be as large, they’re still edible and a valuable addition to various dishes. When the plant is dormant but the soil remains workable, use a spade to gently turn over the soil around the main root, starting about a foot away from the crown in all directions.
As you dig, carefully remove any small root fragments that have been separated from the parent plant. Continue digging until you’ve extracted all the side roots, then replace the soil and top it off with a layer of mulch. With this simple process, you can enjoy your horseradish tidbits alongside a satisfying roast beef dinner.
Storing Horseradish
When it’s time to store your harvested roots for the long haul, aim to do so when the soil is mostly dry. Resist the urge to wash them immediately after harvesting – instead, opt for preserving their natural state. You have a few options for storing these tasty treasures: place them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator, or, if you’re lucky enough to have one, store them in a humid root cellar for months on end.
Alternatively, why not get creative and use them fresh to craft all manner of fermented delights and spicy condiments? With your homegrown horseradish, you can whip up everything from pungent wasabi to tangy cocktail sauce – the possibilities are endless! By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to achieving that coveted nose-clearing, horseradish-fueled joy in your very own garden.
