Horseradish is a very understated herb, but those who do grow it, know how extremely useful and easy it is! Horseradish, as you may know, is a root herb that is used for its hot tasting properties. Follow these tips on how to grow horseradish and you'll be on your way to growing this awesome herb in no time!
Did you know that horseradish is ranked in the top 5 easiest to grow edible plants? This is because it thrives in almost any condition. Horseradish is a cold hardy perennial that thrives when there's a longer winter which force the plants in dormancy.
Most gardeners grow one of two types of horseradish: common horseradish which is characterized by broad, crinkled leaves, and Bohemian horseradish, which has narrower, smoother leaves.
How to Grow Horseradish
Planting Horseradish:
- Horseradish plants are usually grown from root cuttings. You can get a hold of a root cutting from your local nursery or perhaps you know of someone who is willing to give you a cutting for free!
- Although horseradish tolerates light shade, it does prefer full sun.
- The horseradish root can grow in almost any type of soil, as long as it's not water logged soil.
- Loosen the soil to about 12 inches deep and add some organic compost.
- Plant the root cutting in the spring at a 45 degree angle directly into the ground. The hole must be deep enough so that the root will stand upright.
- Fill the hole back up right up until it reaches the crown of the root.
- Once planted, water your horseradish thoroughly and leave it be.
- Horseradish doesn't require much care nor fertilizer.
- Be careful though, horseradish can spread very quickly, so you may want to contain it by planting in a pot or a raised bed.
- One horseradish plant is usually more than enough for a family, but if you're planting more, space each plant about 30 inches apart.
Harvesting Horseradish:
- There are two different theories on when to harvest hoseradish:
- One says you should harvest in the fall, right after the first frost.
- The other theory says you should harvest in early spring.
- Both of these options are acceptable though, so it's completely up to you!
- Dig around the horseradish plant gently as not to break the plant and gently lift it up out of the ground.
- Break off some of the roots and replant them in the ground.
- Now all there's left to do is put your horseradish through a juicer or food processor and it' ready to be served!
Horseradish Problems:
- There are not many problems when it comes to horseradish, except for the fact that it can easily spread in your garden.
- For that reason, we suggest you keep it contained to a pot or its own garden bed.
- When harvest, be sure to pull out the entire root system, including branches.
Now that you know how to grow horseradish, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to planting!
Happy Planting!
