How long does it take to grow ginger?
Written by
Liu Xiaohui
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Comprehending how to grow ginger starts with viable rhizomes, that is, available ginger. Organic ginger is best. Pick plump pieces with visible eyes, which are the small bumps where the sprouts will emerge from the rhizome. Do not select shriveled or moldy pieces of ginger. If you have store-bought ginger, soak it overnight in water. I use this trick to neutralize the growth inhibitors for reliable sprouting.
Soil Preparation
- Mix 3 parts potting soil with 1 part compost
- Ensure pH stays between 5.5-6.5
- Add perlite for drainage in clay-heavy soils
Container Setup
- Use 12-inch deep pots with drainage holes
- Place broken pottery shards at the base
- Pre-warm containers in sun before planting
Ensure consistent moisture levels without causing waterlogging. To check the moisture level of your soil, press your finger two inches into the soil, and if it feels dry, then water your container. If you live in a colder zone, bring the pot inside when temperatures drop below 50°F. My garden in Vermont does this well with grow lights.
Fertilizing
- Apply fish emulsion every 3 weeks
- Stop feeding 6 weeks pre-harvest
- Use banana peel tea for potassium boosts
Timelines for the harvest can vary with the ginger. The young ginger can be harvested at four months and has a relatively mild flavor. For mature ginger, you will want to wait until 8-10 months. Yellowing leaves are your indication for harvest. Cure the rhizomes for 48 hours in a shaded air-flow stable environment, which allows me to keep a supply in my pantry for 9 months.
Read the full article: How to Grow Ginger: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
