Caring for Horseradish Roots
Horseradish roots received before you are able to plant may be stored in slightly moist soil or sand or wrapped in a damp cloth held in a cool cellar for a couple of weeks. Examine the roots frequently as they should not be allowed to dry out, not should they be allowed to decay from too much moisture.
Planting
Plant horseradish in early springas soon as the soil can be worked.
Choose a location infull sun with moist, fertile and medium heavy soil. Horseradish is a perennial crop, so choose a planting site where the roots may spread undisturbed.
Prepare the bed by turning the soil under to a depth of 8 inches. Level with a rake to remove clumps of grass and stones.
Set plants 18 inches apart in rows 30 inches apart. Plant with the thick or larger end up, either in an upright or horizontal position. When planting in a vertical position, a stick or dibble 1 inch in diameter may be used to make the hole in which to plant the root. Cover the roots with 3 inches of soil.
Plants may take 4-6 weeks to emerge.
How to Grow Horseradish
Keep weeds under control during the horseradish growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating. Avoid disturbing the soil around the plants when weeding.
Keep plants well watered during dry periods to promote rapid, uninterrupted growth. Plants need about 1 inch of rain per week during the growing season. Use a rain gauge to check to see if you need to add water. It’s best to water with a drip or trickle system that delivers water at low pressure at the soil level. If you water with overhead sprinklers, water early in the day so the foliage has time to dry off before evening, to minimize disease problems. Keep the soil moist but not saturated.
Several sprouts will grow from each root. The weaker sprouts should be broken off so that one or two of the strongest remain.
When the largest leaves reach 10 inches long, dig up main root and remove side roots on top (but NOT the bottom). Remove nearly all the leaves on the crown, then replant crown.
Repeat after 6 weeks.
Monitor horseradish plants for pests and diseases. Check with your local Cooperative Extension Service for pest controls recommended for your area.
Many gardeners make new plantings within five years as older roots tend to become woody.
Horseradish Harvesting and Preserving Tips
Dig up roots after fall frost kills the foliage.
Store in refrigerator in an airtight plastic bag.
Use grated roots as a condiment.
Leaves may be used in salads.
Horseradish may be dried, either sliced or grated. It may be frozen using a vacuum sealer to help retain the savory oils.
Horseradish may be stored whole in a box of dry sand in a cool, dark place through the winter and used as needed. Or it may be preserved in vinegar.