Ginger (Zingibar officianale) is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia (just like Basil), grown for its aromatic root that is widely used in cooking, medicine, and also in cosmetics. It grows to a height of 3 to 4 feet and is characterized by long, bright green leaves and attractive white or yellow flowers.
Gingers are not frost-tolerant and need a warm and humid environment to grow properly. They prefer well-drained soil and partial shade, but can also tolerate full sun if the soil remains moist. Ginger plants grow from underground rhizomes, and it is possible to propagate new plants from the parent rhizome by division or from stem cuttings. With proper care and attention, ginger plants can provide a fresh, aromatic root for several years.
Care
Growing ginger root outdoors requires a few things: hot and humid conditions and soil that is rich in nutrients. For a successful and healthy harvest, consider rotating crops every few years. If you do not live in a tropical area, we recommend growing ginger root in containers and bringing them indoors during colder temperatures (definitely before the first frost!).
- Soil: Ginger root grows best in loamy soil that is rich in nutrients and retains moisture while allowing proper drainage. A neutral or alkaline soil pH is ideal, although the plant can tolerate slightly acidic conditions (5.5 to 6.5 pH).
- Water: During the growing season, it requires regular watering (every 3-4 days), but you should avoid soaking it. Another important thing is that you do not need to water it during the dormant season.
- Light: Since Ginger is a tropical plant, it thrives in full sun or partial shade.
- Temperatures: Ginger root can grow in soil temperatures between 66 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit, but the best temperature for growing it outdoors is around 77 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is important to protect it from strong winds.
Propagation
To propagate ginger, you can use a piece of fresh ginger root that contains a bud or eye.
- Cut a piece of ginger that is about 2 to 4 inches long and has at least one eye or bud (simple rhizome propagation technique).
- Plant the piece of ginger with the eye or bud facing upward in a pot filled with well-draining soil.
- Water the soil thoroughly, making sure not to soak the ginger root.
- Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm and bright location, but not in direct sunlight.
Common Pests
- Root-knot
- Shoot borer
- Rhizome scale
- Thrips
- White grubs
- Rhizome fly
Frequently Asked Questions
Ginger plants prefer full sun to partial shade conditions. It is safe to say that two to five hours of direct sun is perfect for them.
How long does it take to grow ginger?
Ginger plants are not exactly fast-growers. It takes about 8-10 months for Ginger to fully mature.
Can ginger survive winter?
Ginger plants can survive winter weather, but not frozen soil.
Does ginger need lots of water to grow?
In the growing season, you should water your ginger every 3-4 days. Keep the soil moist, but do not over do it.
How tall does ginger grow?
A fully grown Ginger plant can grow up to 4 ft. tall.
