Horseradish is a hardy perennial known for its pungent roots and vigorous growth. It features broad, crinkled leaves and tiny white flowers. Varieties like Common and Bohemian horseradish offer different traits, such as disease resistance. While adaptable, horseradish requires full sun, moist soil, and regular care to prevent it from becoming invasive. Growing horseradish is relatively straightforward with proper conditions.
- Common Names: Red cole, Pepper root
- Scientific Name: Armoracia rusticana
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Plant Height: 2-5 feet
- Growing Difficulty: Easy
- Growing Time: Harvest in late fall or early spring
- Bloom Time: Summer
- Temperature: 45-75 degrees Fahrenheit
- Hardiness Zone: 3-8 (Find your hardiness zone here)
- Sunlight: Full Sun
- Soil pH: 6.0-7.5
- Watering Frequency: Water regularly, especially when young
- Plant Spacing: Space plants about 18 inches apart
Different Methods to Grow Horseradish
Planting in the Ground
This method involves planting horseradish root pieces directly into the garden soil. Prepare the soil by tilling it 8 to 10 inches deep and removing any debris. Plant the root pieces at a 45-degree angle, about 3 to 4 inches deep, and space them 18 inches apart.
- Pros: Allows for extensive root growth.
- Cons: Can become invasive if not managed properly.
Growing in Containers
Use a large container, such as a 5-gallon bucket or drainage tile, to grow horseradish. Fill the container with a loose, organic potting mix and plant the root pieces at a 45-degree angle. Ensure the container has drainage holes and is placed in a sunny spot.
- Pros: Controls the spread of the plant.
- Cons: Requires frequent watering and monitoring.
Ideal Soil and Location Requirements
Horseradish thrives in well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH and full sun exposure. Planting in a sunny spot with loose, loamy soil ensures optimal growth and root development.
When to Plant Horseradish
Plant horseradish in early spring as soon as the soil is workable or in fall. The best roots are harvested after several frosts, typically in late October or early November, when the foliage has died back. This timing ensures the roots have endured frost, enhancing their flavor.
Growing Horseradish Outdoors
Planting horseradish sets in the ground is the best method for growing horseradish outdoors. This method is straightforward and requires minimal maintenance once established. Here’s a step-by-step guide for home gardeners:
- Pick a sunny spot. Choose a location in your garden that receives full sun or partial sun.
- Prepare the soil. Till the soil 8 to 10 inches deep and remove any rocks, roots, or debris. Add a shovel full of compost to enrich the soil.
- Plant the root pieces. Plant horseradish root pieces at a 45-degree angle, about 3 to 4 inches deep. Space them 18 inches apart to allow for growth.
- Cover the roots. Cover the planted root pieces with topsoil, ensuring they are well buried.
- Water regularly. Water the plants regularly, especially when they are young, to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Fertilize in early spring. Apply a balanced fertilizer to established plants in early spring to promote healthy growth.
- Weed carefully. Keep the area around the plants free of weeds, which can compete for nutrients and water.
- Protect from pests. Monitor for common pests like cabbage worms and flea beetles, and take appropriate measures to control them.
- Harvest in late fall. Harvest the roots in late October or early November after the foliage has been killed by frost. Alternatively, you can harvest in early spring.
- Dig up the roots. Use a garden fork or shovel to carefully dig up the roots, ensuring you remove the entire root to prevent the plant from spreading.
- Store the roots. Trim the foliage to about 1 inch and clean the roots under running water. Store them in damp sand in a root cellar or in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator.
Growing Horseradish Indoors
Growing horseradish indoors is possible by using a large container with proper soil and drainage. Here’s a step-by-step guide for home gardeners:
- Choose a large container. Use a container with at least a 30-inch depth to allow the roots to grow.
- Ensure proper drainage. Select a container with drainage holes and preferably made of unglazed clay to allow excess moisture to escape.
- Fill with quality potting mix. Use a loose, organic potting mix labeled for vegetable growth.
- Plant the root pieces. Plant horseradish root pieces at a 45-degree angle, about 3 inches deep.
- Space the roots. Space the root pieces around 18 inches apart to allow for growth.
- Place in a sunny spot. Position the container in a location that receives full sun.
- Water regularly. Water the plant when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil dries out.
- Fertilize monthly. Apply a balanced fertilizer every month to promote healthy growth.
- Monitor for pests. Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids and flea beetles, and take appropriate measures to control them.
- Harvest the roots. Harvest the roots in late fall or early spring by carefully digging them up.
- Store the roots. Trim the foliage to about 1 inch and clean the roots. Store them in damp sand in a root cellar or in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator.
Horseradish roots can penetrate as deep as 10 feet in rich soil if left undisturbed for several years. This deep taproot system allows the plant to access nutrients and water from deeper soil layers, making it a resilient and hardy addition to any garden.
Caring for Horseradish
- Fertilize in early spring: Established horseradish plants benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied in early spring. This helps promote healthy growth and robust root development.
- Water and weed regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Regular weeding is essential, especially when the plants are young, to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
- Protect against pests: Common pests like aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles can affect horseradish. Use row covers, handpick pests, or apply insecticidal soap to manage infestations.
- Harvest in late fall: The best time to harvest horseradish is after a few frosts in late October or early November. Carefully dig up the roots using a garden fork or shovel.
- Store the roots properly: After harvesting, trim the foliage to about 1 inch and clean the roots. Store them in damp sand in a root cellar or in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
Common Challenges With Horseradish
Horseradish is a remarkably resilient plant, making it relatively easy to grow. It thrives in a variety of soil conditions and can endure cold weather, which is why many gardeners find it a low-maintenance addition to their gardens. In my experience, once you plant horseradish, it pretty much takes care of itself as long as it gets enough sunlight and water. However, its vigorous growth can be both a blessing and a curse.
One of the common challenges when growing horseradish is its tendency to become invasive. If not managed properly, it can spread aggressively through underground roots, making it difficult to control. Additionally, pests like cabbageworms and flea beetles can pose problems, requiring regular monitoring and intervention. Despite these challenges, with a bit of care and attention, horseradish can be a rewarding plant to grow.
Safety of Horseradish for Pets
Horseradish is toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested horseradish, contact the ASPCA 24-hour hotline immediately for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I control the spread of horseradish in my garden?
To control horseradish's spread, plant it in containers or use barriers like landscape fabric. Regularly dig up and remove any unwanted roots. This prevents the plant from becoming invasive and taking over your garden.
What is the best time to plant horseradish?
Plant horseradish in early spring or fall. Early spring planting allows the roots to establish before summer, while fall planting benefits from cooler temperatures, enhancing root flavor after frost exposure.
How often should I water horseradish?
Water horseradish regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Typically, one to two inches of water per week is sufficient. Adjust watering based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.
Can horseradish be grown indoors?
Yes, horseradish can be grown indoors using a large container with proper soil and drainage. Ensure the container receives full sun and water the plant when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil dries out.
