How to Plant Horseradish in a Pot

Horseradish is a pungent root vegetable that is a great addition to any garden or kitchen. It is a perennial plant that is hardy and easy to grow. If you don’t have a garden, don’t worry! You can easily grow horseradish in a pot. Pot-grown horseradish is just as flavorful as field-grown horseradish and will add a touch of heat to your dishes. Here’s how to plant horseradish in a pot.

Choose the Right Pot

The first step in growing horseradish in a pot is to choose the right pot. Horseradish has a long taproot, so it needs a deep pot. A 12-inch deep pot is usually enough for horseradish. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes at the bottom.

Choose the Right Soil

Horseradish prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Use a potting mix that is enriched with compost or well-rotted manure. Make sure the potting mix is moist before planting.

Planting Horseradish

Horseradish can be planted from divisions or cuttings. If you’re using a cutting, select a piece of horseradish root that is about 6 inches long with multiple buds. Plant the cutting in the potting mix at a depth of about 3 inches so that the top bud is just below the surface.

Water the cutting well after planting and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Horseradish prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. You can test the soil with a soil pH meter to make sure it is in the right range.

Caring for Horseradish

Horseradish is a hardy plant that requires little care once established. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Cut back the foliage when it dies back in the fall, leaving just a few inches of stem above the soil. The plant will resprout in the spring.

Harvesting Horseradish

Horseradish can be harvested in the fall after the foliage dies back. Dig up the entire plant, including the root. Cut off the leaves and stems and brush off the soil. Wash the root and peel it with a vegetable peeler. Grate the root and mix it with vinegar to make horseradish sauce. Store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to one month.

In Conclusion

Horseradish is a great addition to any garden or kitchen. If you don’t have a garden, you can easily grow horseradish in a pot. Follow these simple steps to plant and care for horseradish in a pot and enjoy the spicy, pungent flavor of fresh horseradish in your cooking.