Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a versatile plant, prized for its culinary and medicinal properties. Originating from tropical regions, it thrives in warm, humid climates but cannot tolerate freezing temperatures. For gardeners in cooler climates, successfully managing ginger through winter involves either overwintering the live plant indoors or properly storing its harvested rhizomes.
Understanding Ginger’s Winter Cycle
Ginger is a tropical perennial that naturally enters a dormant phase when temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten. As dormancy approaches, the plant’s lush green foliage will yellow and die back, indicating it is channeling energy into its underground rhizomes for storage. Ideal temperatures for active growth range between 22-26°C (72-79°F), while dormancy occurs when temperatures fall below 10°C (50°F).
Preparing Ginger for Winter
For outdoor ginger plants, harvesting is best done when the foliage starts to yellow and die back, ideally before the first hard frost. To harvest, carefully dig around the base of the plant, loosening the soil to avoid damaging the rhizomes, then gently lift them. For potted ginger, gradually reduce watering as outdoor temperatures cool. This encourages the foliage to die back naturally, signaling the plant to enter dormancy.
Overwintering Live Ginger Plants
Potted ginger plants should be moved indoors before temperatures consistently drop below 10°C (50°F). Once inside, place the plant in a location that receives filtered sunlight or bright, indirect light. Strong, direct afternoon sun can be too intense.
During its dormant phase indoors, ginger requires minimal watering. The soil should be allowed to dry out almost completely between waterings to prevent rot, as overwatering can be detrimental. Humidity is also beneficial; a humidifier can be used, or placing the pot on a pebble tray with water can increase ambient moisture.
Maintain a warm environment, ideally above 13°C (55°F), as ginger is sensitive to cold drafts. Dormant ginger does not require fertilization. As spring approaches and new growth emerges, gradually increase watering and reintroduce fertilization to support the plant’s return to active growth.
Storing Harvested Ginger Rhizomes
Harvested ginger rhizomes can be stored for later use or replanting. For short-term storage, fresh, unpeeled ginger can be kept in the refrigerator for a few weeks. Placing it in a paper bag or a sealed plastic bag helps maintain freshness. If refrigerated, ginger may become rubbery, but its suitability for cooking remains.
For longer-term preservation, freezing is an effective option. Prepare ginger by washing and air-drying the rhizomes, then cutting off any shoots or large roots. Frozen ginger can be grated directly into recipes. Another long-term method is dry storage, where rhizomes are kept in a cool, dry place with good air circulation, such as layered in sand, peat moss, or sawdust. Temperatures between 4-10°C (40-50°F) are recommended for storage, though chilling below 12°C (53.6°F) can cause issues like loss of skin color or pitting for mature rhizomes. Regularly check stored rhizomes for any signs of mold or rot, removing affected parts immediately to prevent spread.