Divide horseradish spring, fall

Q. Can I divide my horseradish patch as soon as the snow melts?

Steve from Youngstown

A. Yum! Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana) is a great perennial plant to have in the vegetable garden — and even in the landscape. If the root is harvested yearly, the large, tall green leaves will remain healthy and can add interest to the garden. In full sun, this plant can grow a few feet tall. In spring, horseradish will have tall spikes with white flowers. Removing the flower heads before they form and disperse seed will keep energy in the root and prevent lots of new seedlings in the garden.

Yes, horseradish can be divided in spring. Normally, we would harvest and divide (if necessary) in the fall of the year. My mom always said to harvest horseradish in a month that ends with “R.” This is a good general rule of thumb, but not considered the only option. Gardeners can harvest horseradish through the winter (if you can dig) and into early spring if you have enough root system to harvest without affecting the viability of the patch.

To divide your patch in spring, simply dig it with a spading fork (sometimes called a mulching pitchfork). This will help lift the roots with minimal damage. The largest roots can be harvested to make horseradish sauce; the smaller ones can be divided and transplanted to another area. For a new patch, roots the size of your pinky finger would be a good size for transplanting in groups of four or more.

Horseradish can become invasive if not harvested. Grown in well-drained soil with high organic matter, this plant will thrive. With less perfect soil, the plant with be less productive. In heavy clay soils, the roots will not grow as big. In dry weather, the roots will become woody if not supplied with adequate water.

There are many improved varieties of horseradish. If your patch is old, consider purchasing a new variety for better root quality and disease resistance. Most impressive for use in the landscape is “Variegata.” The leaves are, of course, variegated, with white and cream swirls surrounded by the dark green portions of the leaf. Definitely something to try.

For more on this plant, go to: http://go.osu.edu/horseradish.

Eric Barrett is OSU Extension educator for agriculture and natural resources in Mahoning County. Call the office hot line at 330-533-5538 to submit your questions. Clinic hours vary this time of year due to the winter season.