After transplanting garden-grown wasabi into a mountain stream, this journal documents the early signs of successful rooting in a natural environment. Through close observation of leaf vitality, moss coverage, and soil conditions, we explore how streamside cultivation supports the growth of Japanese wasabi. This entry is part of an ongoing experiment in natural farming and seasonal care, with future hopes for homemade wasabi oil.
🌱 Wasabi from the Garden, Transplanted to the Stream
While searching for seedlings to make wasabi oil, my mother said, “There might be wasabi growing in the garden.”
To find out whether it was truly stream wasabi (sawa-wasabi), we decided to transplant it to the stream behind our family home, near the dam in the mountain.
On September 27, we moved the wasabi to the stream behind the house.
Yesterday, I went back to check whether it had successfully taken root.
🌿 Signs of Life: Wasabi Leaves Speak of Vitality
In this photo, the rhizome of the plant on the right appears to have thickened.
The stream’s water and surrounding moss may be quietly nurturing its roots.
It feels like it’s on its way to becoming delicious wasabi.
Each plant stands firm, with glossy, vibrant leaves.
It seems safe to say the transplant was a success.
The flowing water, humidity, and tranquil environment appear to be supporting the wasabi’s roots.
🍂 Nature’s Mulch: The Role of Fallen Leaves and Moss
Around the wasabi, fallen leaves and moss spread like natural mulch.
They may help protect the plants from winter’s chill.
The moss, glowing under the light, is Kotsubogoke (Fissidens).
It covers the base, retains moisture, and will likely become a supportive presence for the wasabi.
🌍 Life’s Cycle in the Soil Layers
The soil at the transplant site is formed from decomposed fallen leaves and past life.
Unlike the garden, the wasabi now seems to be part of nature’s cycle—growing more vibrantly.
❓ A Possibility of Wild Wasabi and My Mother’s Insight
My mother pointed to a plant and asked, “Could this be wasabi too?”
If it really is wasabi, it couldn’t have grown this large in just one month since the transplant.
Looking back at last month’s photos, I spotted a silhouette that resembles wasabi.
It might have been growing there naturally all along.
There could be more behind the dam, but I’m too afraid of bears to explore further.
🌸 Looking Ahead to Spring: Flowers and Flavor
Judging from the condition of the transplanted wasabi and signs of possible wild growth, I feel this stream is well-suited for wasabi cultivation.
It’s most likely sawa-wasabi.
If it survives the winter, I’ll consider the cultivation a success.
Next spring, the key will be confirming its overwintering and whether it blooms with small, white, cruciform flowers.
And of course, I’ll check whether it delivers that signature pungency that rises gently through the nose when grated.
I’m truly looking forward to spring.
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