Wasabi plant

 Wasabi japonica

Wasabi evolved at the edges of mountain streams in Japan and has adapted to cope with low levels of light, low temperatures and high humidity. To get the best growth from your Wasabi, you must try to provide these conditions for your plants.

We grow our plants in rich, dense potting mix, containing high levels of compost to retain moisture. We provide shade by using sheets of  green shade cloth over the growing container – styrofome boxes work very well (just remember to punch a few small holes for drainage).

Your plants have endured a period of stress after being removed from growing beds and transported to you.  They should be kept in damp newspaper in a cool and shady location until planting can occur – this should be done as soon as possible.

Most leaves have been removed from the young plants – this is to reduce moisture loss during transit. The remaining leaves can be quite brittle so handle them carefully.

To plant out, dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the roots, insert the plant with the roots gently spread out and with the base of the leaf stalks level with the soil surface. Backfill with soil and gently press into place. Water them in well.

These plants must be protected from slugs and snails, high temperatures and direct sunlight. Do not fertilise until new growth is visible. They are unlikely to produce new growth for several weeks, due to the stress of transport. If planted in summer or winter they may not produce new growth at all until the following autumn or spring.