Turmeric is a super spice and food. Many experts believe that turmeric may have more than 600 potential therapeutic and preventive applications, but two of its main properties are that it is an antiseptic and antibacterial food. But what makes turmeric so popular today is its anti-inflammatory properties, which studies have found could rival the anti-inflammatory effects of ibuprofen. Did you know that this spice is very expensive but very easy to grow in your own home? Read on to see the steps you need to take if you want to grow turmeric in your home garden.
How to Easily Grow Turmeric at Home?
Similar to ginger, growing turmeric is made from rhizomes (root cuttings). Turmeric does not propagate seeds. So, all you need is a turmeric root, which can be found in your commercial or health stores.
To grow turmeric indoors, just follow these simple steps:
- Break the larger rhizome into a small piece of rhizome that has two or three buds.
- Fill your pots with rich organic soil that is slightly damp and well drained.
- Place the rhizome (or rhizomes) two inches below the soil surface, with the shoots sticking up.
- Water the pot.
Note: Turmeric will benefit from feeding bi-monthly with a good organic liquid fertilizer or compost.
How to water turmeric?
Turmeric likes water. Keep the soil moist, especially in hot, dry climates. Try to water once every 2 days or mist with a spray bottle. If you live in colder climates, water less often. The key here is that the soil is never soggy.
How to harvest turmeric.
Turmeric takes 8-10 months for the edible rhizomes to mature. While the leaves and stems are edible, most people harvest turmeric just for its roots. Most herbs can be harvested for the entire growing period, but turmeric root is best harvested all at once at maturity.
When the rhizomes are large enough, dig up all the rhizomes from the pot. They are best if you harvest them all at the same time.
Dig up the rhizomes and save a few pieces of the plant for the following season. Make sure to change the soil, as the original plant probably used up all its nutrients.
Storage and use of turmeric.
Turmeric roots should be kept in a cool, dry place until use.
When you’re ready to use them, follow these instructions:
- Boil the roots for 45 minutes.
- Dry the turmeric for about a week.
- Wear gloves to prevent your hands from turning bright yellow.
- Peel the roots.
- Grind the peeled rhizomes and make them the spice that is used in so many recipes.
