Growing wasabi in your garden

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The Wasabi plant starts will be sold ‘bare-root’, and there is no need to ship them in pots containing compost which would be expensive.  During transit, the plant utilises the rhizome to provide food and energy and the roots and stems will continue to grow from the rhizome. 

A well-established plant will produce large heart-shaped leaves about 60 cm high and a metre wide and does not require much sunlight! That’s why Ireland is a great place to grow Wasabi.

During the growing cycle, the leaves will die back in winter because all the energy is transferred to the rhizome.  The rhizome is a swollen stem but sometimes is referred to as wasabi root containing essential nutrients is help it through the winter. The plant will continue to grow through the seasons.

The wasabi plants can survive temperatures down to –5ºC, and you will need a lot of patience and determination in order to look after the plant.  However, the reward is great because after harvesting you will be able to grate your own fresh wasabi from the rhizomes.

During the 2 years growing cycle, you will be able to enjoy Wasabi Leaves, Stems and Flowers which are delicious and can be picked throughout spring and summer.  They can be used to make a delicious addition to your salad!

When you receive the wasabi plant start, you should plant it into at least a 9 L pot with soil, compost and grit/pea shingle (9:5:1). Also, provide plenty of shading to protect the plant from the extremities of weather patterns. In addition, when planting the wasabi starts make sure you use fertile soil and plenty of drainage to avoid root rot.  Remember wasabi likes lots of water but not to sit in puddles.

Furthermore, plant the wasabi start so that the growing medium is slightly below the crown.  This facilitates the growth of new leaves.

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