HORSERADISH

Horseradish

Common Name: Horseradish

Botanical Name: Armoracia rusticana

Family: Cruciferae

Type and Use: Hardy perennial with edible foliage and roots

Location: Full sun to partial shade

Planting Dates: Spring and fall

Planting Method: Root cuttings. Put the root pieces in the soil with the small ends down and the large end 2-4 inches below the soil level.

Harvest Time: Fall is the best time

Height: 24-40 inches

Spread: 12-18 inches

Spacing: Divisions 1 foot apart in rows 3-4 feet apart.

Growth Habits: Leafy perennial that spreads quickly with long, variously cut leaves. Looks like a big lettuce.

Culture: Deep healthy soil is best for the production of large thick roots. Fertilize lightly once a year with a 100 percent organic fertilizer. Too much fertilizer and/or water reduces the flavor of the roots. Remove the spikes of tiny white flowers to concentrate the energy in leaves and roots.

Troubles & Solutions: Various leaf-eating insect pests and slugs and snails. Spray at least once a month with Garrett Juice. Add garlic/pepper tea if the pests persist.

Harvest and Storage: Use a spading fork to carefully dig the roots in the fall. Pick and use leaves for salad any time, but the young spring growth is the most tender and tasty. Roots can be left stored in the ground for several months.

Notes: Some gardeners like to plant horseradish in bottomless buckets to prevent spreading. Plant horseradish near potatoes to help prevent potato diseases

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