Q&A for How to Grow Horseradish

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  • Question
    We grate the horseradish root for Easter. Will the root keep till then if picked after the first heavy frost?
    Andrew Carberry, MPH
    Food Systems Expert
    Andrew Carberry is a Food Systems Expert and the Senior Program Associate at the Wallace Center at Winrock International in Little Rock, Arkansas. He has worked in food systems since 2008 and has experience working on farm-to-school projects, food safety programs, and working with local and state coalitions in Arkansas. He is a graduate of the College of William and Mary and holds a Masters degree in public health and nutrition from the University of Tennessee.
    Food Systems Expert
    Expert Answer
    It would be better to wait and harvest closer to Easter. Alternatively, you could process and can the horseradish in the fall.
  • Question
    When is the best time to plant horseradish??
    Andrew Carberry, MPH
    Food Systems Expert
    Andrew Carberry is a Food Systems Expert and the Senior Program Associate at the Wallace Center at Winrock International in Little Rock, Arkansas. He has worked in food systems since 2008 and has experience working on farm-to-school projects, food safety programs, and working with local and state coalitions in Arkansas. He is a graduate of the College of William and Mary and holds a Masters degree in public health and nutrition from the University of Tennessee.
    Food Systems Expert
    Expert Answer
    Horseradish crowns can be planted in the spring or fall.
  • Question
    Can I freeze horseradish?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can.
  • Question
    Why are my roots long and skinny, but the leaves are massive?
    Community Answer
    This is normal. It has to do with the structural functions of the plant. Leaves need to absorb sunlight for photosynthesis in order to create food. The best way to do this is with large leaves to capture as much sunlight as possible. Roots, however, are made to extract water from the soil in the ground. In order to dig into the ground properly, the roots need to be thin, so they can weave through and around the gaps in the soil. Keep developing horseradish plants pruned to eliminate weeds and keep the leaves from growing out of control.
  • Question
    Is there a way to grow hotter horseradish?
    Community Answer
    Horseradish plants that have survived a frost and are picked at the height of their growth will usually have a hotter, more robust flavor.
  • Question
    How tall are horseradish leaves?
    Community Answer
    They can grow up to four feet tall.
  • Question
    Can I transfer the plant to another pot or to the ground while it is growing?
    Community Answer
    Yes.
  • Question
    How can I preserve the product after grinding up the root?
    Community Answer
    Cover with vinegar after grinding the root. If you want a milder product, you could mix in a little white sugar.
  • Question
    Do I harvest the plant when the leaves are dying off?
    Community Answer
    Wait for the first winter frost to harvest the roots for the best quality If you do not have frost, then a midwinter harvest would be best. In a nutshell, the most dormant time for the plant is best.
  • Question
    What is eating the skin on my horseradish root?
    Community Answer
    It's most likely a botanical disease or bacterial growth. Rinse the leaves the upper portion of the root to remove possible fungal buildup or debris, and employ a mild insecticide if the problem continues.
  • Question
    Can I use horseradish leaves in soup?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can use them for soup or salads, or anything you would use lettuce for.
  • Question
    How long does it take to grow horseradish?
    Community Answer
    6-9 months if you start them off early in a pot.
  • Question
    Can horseradish be grown in hot climates?
    Community Answer
    Yes, it is possible.
  • Question
    Can I eat horseradish leaves?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can.
  • Question
    Should I peel the root before grinding it?
    Community Answer
    Yes you need to peel it first, as the peel is tough and gritty, even after a good scrubbing.
  • Question
    What causes the brown rot in the middle of the root?
    Community Answer
    It is likely that excess water is the cause. Usually if a plant is experiencing root rot, then that is an indicator of too much moisture in the soil.
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