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Horseradish

Armoracia rusticana

INTRODUCTION

Horseradish, often classed as a herb, is a perennial grown for its white, hot and pungent roots.

When thoroughly cleaned, it is grated and used to make Horseradish sauce, traditionally served with beef, or as an ingredient in Coleslaw.

Native to southeastern Europe, Horseradish has been cultivated since the time of the ancient Greeks and is distantly related to the Brassica family of plants. The term 'Horse' refers to the plant's coarse nature.

Soil Preparation

Horseradish will grow quite happily in any soil type but dislikes waterlogged areas. 

The site should be open and sunny as Horseradish dislikes heavily shaded areas.

The crop will be at its happiest in deep, rich well-manured soils that are free draining.

Sowing & Planting

Horseradish is a long-term crop, do not try and grow amongst other veg types. It is far better to provide this crop with its own designated production area if space permits.

Prepare the growing area by removing any weed from the soil and rake level to a fine tilth.

Although Horseradish can be propagated from seed, the more usual method of plant raising is to produce your crop from bare roots. Also known as 'thongs' or 'crowns' the plant can be propagated from the smallest of root cuttings. Some suppliers will offer pot grown planting material.

Pot grown plants may be planted at any time of year. Plant bare roots from March until April when weather permits. 

Pot grown plants should be planted with the crown at soil level.

Roots should be planted at a depth of 10cm (4 inches). Plant with the thickest end of the root pointing upwards.

Plant spacings should be at least 60cm (24 inches) between plants and rows as Horseradish is a vigorous perennial. 

Once established, you can propagate your own plants simply by lifting and dividing your own roots.

Be warned, this is an invasive plant that will spread if allowed. It might be advisable to plant into a raised bed or sunken bottomless container to restrict root spread.

Growing & General Cultivation

After planting, water well. Horseradish will require regular watering to maintain growth during establishment, especially during drought conditions.

Keep growing area weed-free but take care not to damage roots when hoeing.

Mulching will help conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Feeding should not be necessary.

In the autumn, the plants will naturally go into dormancy. When the foliage dies down, tidy plants up by removing dead leaves.

Pests & Diseases

Horseradish is an incredibly hardy plant and will take care of itself. As a result, it is in general a trouble-free plant to grow.

The biggest threat is from the plants' invasive attitude. Horseradish, once established, will act as a weed and readily spread. Eradication will be difficult. 

Harvesting

Harvesting can be at any time of the year, however, roots are at their best and most flavoursome during the winter and early spring before growth resumes.

Lift roots with a fork being careful not to damage individual thongs. Be aware, Horseradish can be very deep-rooted.

Roots can be stored in a similar way to other root crops by placing in sand in a frost-free environment but are always at their best when used fresh.

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