You can grow turmeric from a store-bought rhizome, which is the underground stem of this tropical plant in the ginger family. Turmeric reproduces vegetatively, growing new plants from a piece of the rhizome rather than from a seed. Fresh turmeric from the grocery store is a viable starting point for growing your own spice, provided it has not been treated to inhibit sprouting. Growing turmeric requires a long, warm season, typically spanning 8 to 10 months. Gardeners in cooler climates often cultivate it in containers indoors or in a greenhouse.
Preparing Store-Bought Turmeric for Planting
Select rhizomes that are plump, firm, and show no signs of mold or shriveling. Look for pieces that have visible “eyes” or small, bumpy buds, as these are the points where new shoots and roots will emerge. Choosing organic turmeric is recommended because non-organic varieties are sometimes treated with growth inhibitors that prevent sprouting.
Large rhizomes should be cut into smaller sections, ideally one to three inches long. Each segment must contain at least one or two healthy buds to ensure successful germination. After cutting, allow the pieces to dry for one or two days at room temperature. This curing period allows the cut surface to form a protective callous before planting.
Planting the Rhizome and Establishing Growth
Plant the turmeric in a container at least 12 inches deep and wide to allow space for new rhizomes to form. The potting mix must be loose, rich in organic matter, and drain exceptionally well to prevent rotting. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0, is most suitable.
Plant the prepared rhizome pieces two to three inches deep in the soil, with the bud facing upward or sideways. Warmth is the primary factor for sprouting, requiring soil temperatures consistently between 65°F and 85°F. Gardeners often use a heat mat or place the container in a warm indoor location to achieve the necessary temperature for germination, which can take several weeks. Until the first green shoot emerges, keep the soil only lightly moist, as overwatering is the primary cause of rot.
Long-Term Care and Dormancy
During the warmer months, the plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, though afternoon shade is beneficial in the hottest climates. Turmeric needs the soil to remain consistently moist throughout the growing season. Excellent drainage is necessary, however, to avoid waterlogging the rhizomes, which would lead to rot.
The plant is considered a heavy feeder, so regular fertilization is beneficial for maximizing the eventual harvest. Apply a balanced organic fertilizer every six to eight weeks to support leaf and rhizome development during active growth. As the season progresses into late fall or early winter, the plant begins its dormancy cycle. This is signaled by the leaves starting to yellow and die back, indicating the plant is directing its energy into maturing the rhizomes underground.
When the foliage has fully withered, watering must be drastically reduced. If the plant is in a container in a cold climate, move it indoors to a cool, dark location where temperatures remain above 50°F. This dormancy period is necessary for the rhizomes to fully develop before new growth begins the following spring.
Harvesting Your Homegrown Turmeric
Harvesting typically occurs eight to ten months after planting, usually in late fall or early winter. The most reliable sign that the rhizomes are ready is when the plant’s leaves have turned completely yellow and died back to the soil line. Harvesting prematurely results in smaller rhizomes, as the plant uses the final months to bulk up its underground stores.
To harvest, carefully dig up the entire clump of rhizomes using a spade or fork, avoiding piercing the underground stems. Shake off the excess dirt and separate the new, finger-like rhizomes from the original “mother” piece. The new rhizomes can be washed, air-dried for a day or two to form a tough outer skin, and then stored in a cool, dark place or frozen. The mother rhizome can be set aside and replanted to start the cycle again next season.