Horseradish
A perennial root known for its pungent flavour, horseradish adds a fiery kick to dishes. Extremely easy to grow, but can be very invasive, so careful siting is essential. Grow it once, and you'll likely have it forever!
Horseradish (Root cuttings)
£4.99 in the shop
Calendar
Sow
Plant root cuttings (thongs) in March – April
Plant out
Plant thongs horizontally, 5-7cm (2-3 inches) deep, or at a 45-degree angle with the thicker end up.
Harvest
October – March, after the first hard frosts, usually 1 year after planting for initial harvest
Conditions
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Tolerant of dry conditions once established, but benefits from consistent moisture for better root development
Soil
Tolerant of most soils, but prefers deep, fertile, well-drained soil, pH 6.0–7.0
Spacing
30-60cm between plants; often best in a dedicated bed due to invasiveness
Containers
Highly recommended to grow in large, deep containers (at least 60cm deep) or a bottomless bucket sunk into the ground to prevent spread.
Indoors
Not typically grown indoors; established root planted outdoors
Care and harvest
Feeding
Generally not required once established. For new plants, a balanced feed can help initial growth.
Pruning
Remove flower stalks if they appear, as flowering can reduce root vigour. Keep an eye on spreading foliage.
Harvesting
Dig up roots as needed in autumn/winter. Break off pieces for use, leaving some smaller roots or pieces behind for next year's growth.
Storage
Store fresh roots in a cool, dark, moist place (e.g., damp sand in a cellar) for several months, or grate and freeze.
Good companions: Potatoes