You can sneak a little pre-harvest in by gently digging around the base and snapping off or cutting a piece. While the entire crop may take 8 to 10 months, you can harvest earlier if autumn encroaches on your growingseason. Fresh Wild Ginger: Wild varieties of ginger, which are foraged rather than cultivated, can be more expensive due to the labor-intensive process of harvesting them and their limited availability. On a vibrant journey to the Caribbean, amidst the rhythmic beats of reggae and the tantalizing aroma of street food, I was introduced to Jamaican Ginger. This variant of Zingiber officinale is deeply rooted in Jamaica’s rich history and culture. This means that the flowers will have wilted and the leaves turned yellow, while the stems themselves will also be sagging.

Every time I come across it, I’m reminded of the incredible diversity and beauty nature offers, even in something as seemingly simple as ginger. 8. Jamaican Ginger For rhizomes, dig a trench that’s 6 inches deep and lay rhizomes, eyes up, in the trench about 8-12 inches apart. Cover with an inch ofsoil. This plant is native to Himalayan regions and grown primarily for ornamental purpose. Large dramatic foliage and showy, fragrant flowers make it a truly exotic tropical plant.

Learn how to plant, grow, and care for ginger

Break a good chunk of the ginger root to replant and continue growing for the next crop. This way you can keep your ginger goingindefinitely. Beehive Ginger is famous as an ornamental plant due to its unique beehive-like yellow inflorescences that become red once mature. All parts have a strong gingery fragrance, making local dishes and appetizers. In fact, a review of 8 studies found that taking 1,000 mg of curcumin was as effective at reducing joint pain as certain pain medications in those with arthritis ( 14). Another study in 74 people found that taking 2 grams of ginger for 11 days significantly reduced muscle pain caused by exercise ( 18). Support immune function

Growing ginger is not as difficult as you might think, and it’s fun too. Once you get the hang of ginger plant care, you’ll have it on hand whenever you need it in your favorite recipes – and you may never have to buy it again. More Herb Gardening Posts Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can be used in sweet dishes as a substitute for ginger. It has a warm and sweet flavor profile that complements many desserts. This tropical plant looks glorious with its big and vibrant flowers that appear in red, pink, or orange colors. When used in moderation, ginger and turmeric are both considered safe and healthy additions to a well-rounded diet.

Ginger oil is derived from the steam distillation of the ginger root. Like its juicy counterpart, ginger oil is a concentrated form of the root’s flavor and aromatic compounds. However, its potency and depth of flavor set it apart. Often just a few drops of this infusion are enough to transform a dish, be it a drizzle over a salad or a key component in a marinade. Furthermore, ginger oil has a prominent place in various culinary applications, from dressings to drizzles, lending a rich, intense aroma and taste to dishes. During my explorations of ginger varieties, I was captivated by the striking Red Ginger ( Alpinia purpurata). While it still falls under the umbrella of Zingiber officinale, its vibrant red hue sets it apart. Beyond its culinary appeal, I’ve been fascinated by its medicinal prowess, especially the compound curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. A review of five studies also showed that taking at least 1 gram of ginger per day could help significantly reduce post-operative nausea and vomiting ( 28). It’s easy to freeze fresh ginger. Dividing your freezer bags into usable portions makes it convenient for your favorite recipes. How to Grow Ginger Indoors

Meanwhile, test-tube and human studies indicate that turmeric extract can decrease several markers of inflammation, with some research noting that it may be as effective as anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen and aspirin ( 8, 9, 10). Its medicinal properties are mostly due to the presence of phenolic compounds, including gingerol, a chemical thought to possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties ( 3). The time between these seasons gives the ginger ample time to absorb the heat and direct all activities to the roots below ground for the rhizomes to grow. Organic Ginger: Organic varieties of any ginger type, especially common ginger ( Zingiber officinale), can be pricier than their non-organic counterparts because of the costlier organic farming practices.It’s fairly easy to care for, but does have a few special needs. So below, I’ll give you all the details for successful ginger plant care. Water Every time I use or come across Etlingera in my travels, it serves as a vivid reminder of the intricate blend of beauty and flavor that nature offers. 15. Kaempferia Whether I’m sprinkling it into a curry, brewing a soothing turmeric tea, or researching its health benefits, Curcuma continually reminds me of the intricate dance between nature’s flavors and its healing touch. 18. Wild Ginger For starters, some research has found that ginger may decrease blood clotting and could interfere with blood thinners when used in high amounts ( 34). Kaempferia galanga, often found in the vibrant cuisine of Thailand, brings a gentle and complementary flavor to dishes like curries. Its subtle presence enhances the overall taste without overpowering the palate. On the other hand, Zingiber mioga, with its Japanese roots, adds a touch of subtle aroma to dishes like sushi, making it a unique and aromatic addition.