Wasabi Japanese Mountain Wasabi

Sowing info

Cold stratification is the key to success with wasabi. Before sowing, place seeds in a damp piece of folded kitchen paper in a sealed bag in the fridge for 4–6 weeks. Then soak seeds in cold water for 12 hours. Sow into moist, well-draining peat-free compost, just covering. Germination takes 3–4 weeks.

Growing info

Wasabi thrives in cool, shady, consistently moist conditions, a north-facing spot or dappled shade is ideal. Keep compost evenly moist but never waterlogged. Plant out once well established, sheltered from wind and frost. Harvest the rhizome in spring or autumn after around two years. Pull up the whole plant and grate the root fresh, the flavour fades within the hour. The leaves and stems are edible too, and well worth enjoying while you wait!

Sowing months: March – May

Harvest months: April – October

Position: Shady and moist