Ginger is a spicy, fragrant herb that is utilized in many culinary dishes. It is covered in tan-colored skin, knuckle-like in appearance and knotty in texture. The skin is removed prior to cooking or consuming to reveal a yellow, soft, fibrous meat. Because ginger grows beneath the soil, it is often referred to as ginger root; however, the correct term for the edible portion of the plant is rhizome. Ginger is easy to grow as long as you provide the plant with proper soil conditions.
pH and Sanitation
Ginger plants require mildly acidic soils for healthy growth and rhizome production. Ensure that your soil pH is between 5.5 and 6.5. If the soil pH is too high, it is too alkaline; if it is too low, it is too acidic, and will interfere with ginger growth. Lower the soil pH by applying composted manure, or increase the pH with calcium carbonate or dolomite to achieve optimal pH. Good clean soil is also important for healthy ginger. Make sure that the soil is sanitary and free from pests, or fungal pathogens and parasites, such as root knot nematodes.
Ginger prefers rich, fertile soil. Soil rich in organic matter provides ginger with the nutrients it needs to produce flavorful, healthy rhizomes, without the need for additional fertilizers and amendments. If your soil is lacking in organic matter, or if you are using a store-bought potting mix, stick to a regular fertilization schedule for your ginger plant. Some ginger plants suffer tip rot, in which the tip of the rhizome begins to decay. This indicates a lack of calcium in the soil; therefore, a calcium amendment may be necessary. When adding fertilizers and supplements in areas of high rainfall, remember that rainwater pulls and leaches applications from the soil; therefore, try not to fertilize ginger plants directly before a rainstorm.
Moist, well-draining soil is optimal for ginger plants. It is important that the soil mixture hold moisture; however, it is important that ginger plants not be exposed to overly saturated or waterlogged soil. The best soils for draining and moisture retention include sandy or loamy mixtures. Create a soil mixture using one part sand and one part compost for optimal drainage, as well as the proper amount of organic matter for fertilization. Because ginger develops beneath the soil, adequate soil coverage is also required to protect the rhizome from the elements above ground. Guard against soil erosion, due to wind and rainfall, by providing a sheltered area for your ginger plant to grow.
Ginger grows well in containers, raised beds or in the ground. Always mulch around ginger plants grown directly in the ground. Mulch helps the soil retain moisture, while also adding organic matter. Ginger plants start to produce rhizomes late in the summer months, which are ready for harvest in late winter or early spring as the plant’s leaves begin to die. To ensure healthy rhizomes, reduce water to allow the soil to dry slightly at the time of production. Thereafter, ensure that the soil remains moist.
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