When is Horseradish in Season?
Horseradish is a popular root vegetable that is known for its pungent flavor and aroma. It is commonly used in sauces, dips, and condiments to add a spicy kick to any dish.
Horseradish is a cool-weather crop that grows best in the spring and fall. It can be planted in the early spring as soon as the ground can be worked, and it can be harvested in the fall after the first frost. In warmer climates, horseradish can be planted in the fall and harvested the following spring. The best time to harvest horseradish is when the leaves start to turn yellow and die back, which usually occurs in late October or early November.
Seasonality Overview
According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, you should plant horseradish sets—small pieces of horseradish root—in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, or in fall. Cool weather helps give horseradish its pungency, so it is generally harvested from mid-fall right through to early spring. After a hard freeze, horseradish is ready to dig.
Horseradish is at its best in fall and winter. Like so many other root vegetables, it stores well and is often available well into spring. Uncut horseradish roots will keep for several weeks in the crisper drawer of your fridge.
According to FoodPrint, horseradish is perennial in hardiness zones 2-9 and can be grown as an annual in other zones, although not as successfully as in zones with both a long growing season and winter temperatures cold enough to ensure plant dormancy. After the first frost in autumn kills the leaves, the root is dug and divided.
Varieties and Availability
There are two main varieties of horseradish: common and Bohemian. Common horseradish has broad, crinkled leaves, while Bohemian horseradish has narrower, smooth leaves. Both varieties are grown in the same way and have a similar flavor profile, but Bohemian horseradish is said to have a slightly milder taste.
When purchasing horseradish, look for roots that are firm and free from blemishes. Fresh horseradish can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks, but it should be wrapped in damp paper towels to prevent it from drying out.
If you prefer to use fresh horseradish, you can grow your own by planting root cuttings in the spring. Horseradish is a hardy plant that can be grown in most climates, but it prefers a cool, moist environment. It can take up to a year for the roots to fully mature, so patience is key when growing your own horseradish.
Seasonality in North America
Horseradish Seasonality for Each One of The US States
Here’s a table that shows the seasonality for horseradish in each of the US states:
| State | Seasonality |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Not applicable |
| Alaska | Not applicable |
| Arizona | Not applicable |
| Arkansas | Not applicable |
| California | Not applicable |
| Colorado | Not applicable |
| Connecticut | Not applicable |
| Delaware | Not applicable |
| Florida | Not applicable |
| Georgia | Not applicable |
| Hawaii | Not applicable |
| Idaho | Not applicable |
| Illinois | Fall |
| Indiana | Fall |
| Iowa | Fall |
| Kansas | Fall |
| Kentucky | Fall |
| Louisiana | Not applicable |
| Maine | Not applicable |
| Maryland | Not applicable |
| Massachusetts | Not applicable |
| Michigan | Fall |
| Minnesota | Fall |
| Mississippi | Not applicable |
| Missouri | Fall |
| Montana | Not applicable |
| Nebraska | Fall |
| Nevada | Not applicable |
| New Hampshire | Not applicable |
| New Jersey | Not applicable |
| New Mexico | Not applicable |
| New York | Not applicable |
| North Carolina | Not applicable |
| North Dakota | Fall |
| Ohio | Fall |
| Oklahoma | Not applicable |
| Oregon | Not applicable |
| Pennsylvania | Not applicable |
| Rhode Island | Not applicable |
| South Carolina | Not applicable |
| South Dakota | Fall |
| Tennessee | Not applicable |
| Texas | Not applicable |
| Utah | Not applicable |
| Vermont | Not applicable |
| Virginia | Not applicable |
| Washington | Not applicable |
| West Virginia | Not applicable |
| Wisconsin | Fall |
| Wyoming | Not applicable |
Seasonality in South America
Horseradish is not typically grown in South America, so it is not a commonly consumed vegetable in the region.
According to Tridge, the best time to source horseradish in South Africa is from May to September. However, this information may not be applicable to other regions in South America.
Seasonality in Europe
According to Tridge, the global harvest season for horseradish runs from December to April. During this time, many European countries are in the midst of their own horseradish season. For example, in Poland, the main horseradish harvest takes place in March and April, while in Germany, it typically runs from October to April.
The seasonality of horseradish can vary depending on the country and region. In general, the plant thrives in cooler temperatures and is more likely to be available during the winter and early spring months. If you’re looking to try fresh horseradish, it’s a good idea to visit your local farmers’ market during these months to see if any vendors have it available.
Seasonality in Asia
In Southeast Asia, the seasonality of horseradish can be different depending on the country. For example, in Thailand, horseradish is typically available from November to February. However, in Vietnam, it’s available year-round. It’s important to do your research on the specific country you’re visiting or sourcing from to determine the best time to find horseradish.
Seasonality in Australia
Horseradish is a cool-season crop that grows best during specific months or seasons in Australia. According to Tilly’s Cheesesteaks, the seasonal availability of horseradish can be summarized as follows:
Autumn: Autumn marks the beginning of the horseradish season in Australia. This is when the roots start to mature and are ready for harvesting. The cooler temperatures and increased rainfall during this time of year create ideal growing conditions for horseradish.
Winter: Winter is the peak season for horseradish in Australia. The roots are fully mature and have reached their maximum size. The cold temperatures during this time of year also help to enhance the flavor of the roots.
Spring: Spring marks the end of the horseradish season in Australia. By this time, most of the roots have been harvested and the plants are starting to die back. It’s still possible to find some fresh horseradish during this time of year, but it may be harder to come by.
Health Benefits
Horseradish is a root vegetable that is packed with nutrients. It is low in calories and fat, and high in fiber, vitamin C, and folate. In addition to its nutritional value, horseradish has been shown to have a number of health benefits.
One of the most notable health benefits of horseradish is its ability to boost the immune system. This is due to its high concentration of vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the body from harmful free radicals. Vitamin C also plays a key role in the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infections and diseases.
Horseradish has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body. This is due to the presence of isothiocyanates, which are compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
In addition to its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, horseradish has also been shown to have anti-cancer properties. This is due to its high concentration of glucosinolates, which are compounds that have been shown to have anti-cancer effects.
Overall, horseradish is a nutritious and healthy food that can provide a number of health benefits. Whether you enjoy it as a condiment or as a main ingredient in your favorite dishes, horseradish is a great addition to any diet.