Horseradish is grown for its strong flavoured root, a favourite accompaniment to roast beef. Horseradish is a perennial plant that can grow vigorously like a weed, unless it is kept under control.
You can grow horseradish not just as a delicious accompaniment but also for its medicinal properties. This vegetable has anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant properties, and is part of the cruciferous family like kale, mustard, cabbage, and broccoli.
How about making your winter feast extra special with homemade horseradish sauce? Follow our guide on growing horseradish in the UK, to find out more.
When growing horseradish in the UK, you will have one variety, ‘Armoracia rusticana’. This variant is hardy, perennial and becomes dormant during winter.
When planting horseradish, it’s best to grow it in a container, raised bed, or enclosed area of soil to prevent it from spreading, as it can be quite invasive. Horseradish is usually planted from a root cutting (known as a thong) or a young plant. Seeds are rarely available and tend to grow very slowly, often taking years to reach harvesting size.
You should plant the root thongs or plants in spring-summer in a sunny or semi-shaded position, in well-drained soil. The best time to plant the thongs or young plants is during March and April, after the ground has started to warm.
Horseradish will grow well in poorer soil but will do better with some well-rotted manure. Horseradish root cuttings should be planted approximately 2 inches below the soil and approximately 18 inches apart. You will require a large, deep pot if you are growing Horseradish in a container, as it can grow up to 5 feet tall.
Are you wondering when to pick horseradish? Horseradish roots can be harvested during October-November, once the leaves have died and wilted. Roots are stronger in flavour if they are left until after a frost or two and you can pick them by tipping the container and removing the root. Take as much as you need and replant the rest in fresh compost. You can also gently remove it from the soil using a handheld rake.
It is advised to use gloves when harvesting horseradish, as the pungency can irritate your skin. Horseradish roots are best stored in a cool, dark place with ventilation, or alternatively, you can grate them and freeze them
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