Growing Horseradish in Containers: Best Pots, Soil Mixes & Care Tips

Horseradish is one of the easiest perennial herbs to grow—and one of the best suited for containers. In fact, because horseradish spreads aggressively underground, I’ve found containers to be the most controlled, predictable, and space-efficient way to grow it. Whether you’re gardening on a patio, balcony, small yard, or simply want to keep this vigorous plant contained, bucket gardening is an ideal approach.

Below is everything you need to know to grow horseradish in containers successfully, with practical insights from years of growing this root in both raised beds and pots.

Table of Contents

Why Grow Horseradish in Containers?

After growing horseradish in garden beds for decades, I can say one thing with certainty: it does not stay put. Container growing solves this by:

Preventing spreading roots from taking over a bed
Making it easy to harvest clean, straight roots
Allowing perfect control of soil moisture and fertility
Making it possible to grow horseradish anywhere—patio, deck, or small garden

Container-grown horseradish often produces fatter, more uniform roots because soil density and fertility are easier to manage.

Best Container Size for Horseradish

Horseradish forms long taproots, so depth matters.

Recommended container size:

Minimum depth: 18–24 inches
Minimum width: 16–20 inches
Material: Food-safe plastic buckets, grow bags (10–15 gallons), wood barrels, or ceramic pots
Drainage: Must have multiple unobstructed drainage holes

I grow my container horseradish in a 15-gallon grow bag with excellent results—the roots stay straight and harvesting is very easy.

Best Soil Mix for Container Horseradish

Loose, rich soil is the secret to forming straight, flavorful roots.

DIY soil mix I recommend:

40% high-quality potting soil
40% compost
20% coarse sand or perlite

This blend ensures drainage and aeration while providing plenty of organic matter to support root growth.

Ideal soil pH: 6.0–7.5
Avoid: Heavy soil, pure compost, garden soil, or mixes that compact easily.

How to Plant Horseradish in Containers

Horseradish is grown from root cuttings called sets.

Planting steps

Fill your container two-thirds full with the soil mix.
Lay the root cutting at a slight angle—crown end up, narrow end down.
Cover with 2–3 inches of soil.
Water thoroughly to settle the mix.
Add mulch to help maintain even moisture.

Plant in early spring in cold climates or late fall to early winter in mild-winter climates.

Watering and Feeding Container Horseradish

Horseradish prefers even, consistent moisture.

Watering guidelines

Keep soil moist but never waterlogged.
A deep watering 1–2 times per week is typical, depending on weather.
Container plants dry faster—monitor often during hot spells.

Feeding schedule

Mix compost into the pot at planting.
Feed monthly with a balanced organic fertilizer (e.g., 5-5-5).
Stop fertilizing 8 weeks before harvest to avoid soft roots.

Sun Requirements for Container Horseradish

Horseradish is adaptable, but for vigorous root production:

Full sun (6+ hours) is best.
Partial shade is acceptable, especially in hot-summer regions where afternoon shade prevents stress.

In my Sonoma Valley garden, I grow container horseradish where it gets morning sun and dappled afternoon shade.

Maintaining Horseradish in Containers

Remove side shoots during the season to encourage a single, main root.
Top-dress with compost midseason to refresh nutrients.
Rotate the container 1–2 times during the season if one side receives stronger light.

Harvesting Container Horseradish

Harvest after the first fall frost for the strongest flavor, or anytime from late fall through winter in mild-winter climates.

How to harvest:

Lay the container on its side.
Gently loosen soil and pull the main root.
Save small side roots to replant for next season.

Container-grown roots are typically clean, straight, and easier to lift than garden-grown ones.

Overwintering Horseradish in Pots

In freezing climates, move the container into:

An unheated garage
A shed
A cold frame

Keep the soil lightly moist but not wet. Horseradish is hardy but roots can freeze solid in small pots.

Final Thoughts

Growing horseradish in containers is the simplest, cleanest, and most manageable way to enjoy this bold, spicy root. With the right pot, soil mix, and care routine, you can grow abundant horseradish on any patio or small-space garden—and keep it from taking over your beds for good.