sowing
Stratify the seeds in the refrigerator for 60 to 90 days to encourage germination. Then soak the seeds in water before putting them on a nutrient-poor Potting soil Spread out and press lightly. For a good germination result you have to keep the substrate evenly moist. An occasional splash of water mimics the natural habitat of Eutrema japonicum, which is located on streams and rivers.
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Planting out
The young plants find good growth conditions in the field or in a tub if the ambient conditions are right. The bank areas of streams or garden ponds serve as optimal locations. A planting distance of 30 centimeters between the individual plants is important so that they can develop without restriction.
Location requirements:
- does not like direct sun, gardens facing north are ideal
- Temperatures of eight to 20 degrees
- nutrient-rich and humus-rich substrate, preferably loamy
- moist but not waterlogged floors
Care and harvest
Wasabi requires even soil moisture, so you should pay attention to regular watering. The Japanese vegetable cannot tolerate dry periods. Occasional application of liquid fertilizer accelerates development. The roots survive mild winter months with temperatures in the single-digit minus range. If you want to be on the safe side, consider the bed with one Garden fleece cover. Late frosts in spring can damage the freshly sprouting leaves.
Harvest wasabi
It can take up to three years for a stalk that is ready to be harvested to develop. You shouldn't harvest Japanese horseradish until the plant divides. In this way you ensure the continued existence of the laboriously grown plants. Leaves and flowers can be used in the kitchen just like the roots.
Variety of varieties
There are now some cultivated forms that prove to be less demanding than the original species. They can be cultivated outdoors without any problems in Central European conditions.
Daruma
This variety thrives in normal garden soils and develops richly branched rhizomes. It is popular not only because of its easy-care requirements, but also because of its aromatic taste. In Japan this breed is cultivated on streams and rivers. Here, the flowing water provides cooling in summer, while it ensures mild climatic conditions in winter.
Mazuma
These wasabi plants develop short and thick tubers because they grow relatively slowly. Mazuma rockets are characterized by robust growth and are rarely attacked by diseases. Most of the young plants from the hardware store can be traced back to the Mazuma wasabi.
Midor
In Japan, this cultivation method is similar to that of rice plants. The breed is fast growing and thrives in cool temperatures. However, germination proves difficult as only a few seeds sprout.
