Growing Turmeric

1. Attain turmeric root

Turmeric doesn’t propagate seeds and is grown from rhizomes (root cuttings). Therefore, all you need is one organic turmeric root, which you can buy at a local nursery or online.

2. Break up the rhizome

Break off the fingers as I call them and plant each one individually. Make sure each piece has a bud or two on it.

3. Use a large pot

Start off with a pot large enough to grow a nice root system. The larger the pot, the larger the root will grow. Make sure your pots have drainage holes so that the soil will drain well. Fill your pot with slightly moistened, rich, organic soil.  Or plant in the ground or raised bed.  Space each finger 12” apart.

4. Planting

Plant the rhizomes two inches beneath the soil, making sure that the buds are facing up. Turmeric prefers sunlight but will grow under artificial grow lights.

5. Water

Turmeric grows better when it is kept moist, especially in hot climates. Water it about every two days, and spray it with a mist bottle between waterings. When the weather is cold, you will not need to water it as often. You always want the soil to be moist, but never soggy!

6. Fertilize: Fertilize your turmeric plant once a month. You can use organic fertilizer or make your own compost.

When Is Harvest Time?

One downside to growing turmeric is it takes about 8-10 months to mature. Furthermore, it is best to harvest the root in one entire piece.

It is best to maintain several plants, started at different times of the year so that you have a continuous supply of turmeric root.

After the 8-10 months, when you feel that the roots are large enough, it is time to dig them up.

Save a few pieces of the rhizome for re-potting. You can re plant the ones for next year in new soil right away.  They will start to grow in spring.  when they do start watering and fertilize.