Ginger used for planting is a rhizome, a modified underground stem, not a true seed. The rhizome contains stored nutrients and dormant growth nodes, often called “eyes,” which allow the plant to be propagated vegetatively. Finding quality rhizomes is the first step toward a successful harvest. This guide explores reliable sources for purchasing ginger rhizomes and the steps needed to prepare them for planting.
Identifying Reliable Sources for Purchase
The source of ginger rhizomes significantly impacts their viability due to commercial agricultural practices. Specialty catalogs and online exotic plant vendors offer high-quality planting stock, often certified organic and cultivated specifically for propagation. While these sources may offer unique varieties, they usually come at a higher cost and shipping delays can affect the rhizome’s freshness upon arrival.
Local nurseries and garden centers are convenient options, but the quality of their stock varies widely. It is important to ask staff if the rhizomes have been treated with fungicides or growth inhibitors, as this information is not always labeled. While local stock may be well-suited to the regional climate, it is less likely to be certified disease-free.
Sourcing from organic grocery stores, especially Asian markets, is a common but risky option. Although organic labeling means the ginger was grown without synthetic pesticides, it does not guarantee the rhizome was not treated post-harvest. Many commercially sold rhizomes, even organic ones, are treated with sprout inhibitors like chlorpropham or subjected to irradiation to extend shelf life. These treatments prevent the “eyes” from activating.
For the most reliable results, purchasing certified seed-grade ginger from a reputable grower is recommended, despite the higher cost. This certified stock is professionally graded for high vigor and is guaranteed to be free of common ginger pathogens like bacterial wilt and soft rot. Avoiding rhizomes with unknown origins minimizes the risk of introducing diseases into your garden.
Selecting Healthy Planting Stock
Evaluating the rhizome’s quality at the point of purchase is necessary for successful growth. A healthy rhizome should be plump and firm, with smooth, taut skin showing no signs of shriveling, mold, or dark, soft spots that indicate decay. The presence of visible growth nodes, or “eyes,” which look like small green or pink bumps, is a strong indicator of a viable planting piece.
The size of the rhizome also matters; pieces between two and four inches long generally have enough stored energy to support initial shoot development. Rhizomes that appear desiccated or overly wrinkled have lost too much moisture and are unlikely to sprout. For culinary varieties, like common Zingiber officinale, ensure the flesh is yellow or white, and avoid any pieces with an unnatural or chemical odor.
Beyond culinary ginger, many ornamental varieties with colorful flowers are typically sourced from specialized vendors. These ornamental types should be evaluated using the same criteria of firmness and health as the edible ones. Confirming the variety is important, as common edible ginger is the most reliable type for home food production.
Handling and Pre-Planting Preparation
After acquiring the ginger, a few simple steps prepare the rhizomes for optimal sprouting and protect them from fungal issues. If the rhizome is large, divide it into smaller sections. Each piece must be at least one to one-and-a-half inches long and contain one or more viable growth buds. Dividing the rhizome maximizes the number of plants you can grow from a single purchase.
Once the rhizome is cut, the surfaces must be allowed to cure. This involves letting the freshly cut areas dry and harden into a protective layer called a callus. This process should take between 24 and 48 hours in a dry, shaded location. Callousing seals the open wound, significantly reducing the entry point for soil-borne pathogens that cause rot.
If you suspect the rhizomes were treated with a growth inhibitor, soaking them in lukewarm water overnight can help remove residual chemicals. For protection against pathogens, a brief soak in a dilute hydrogen peroxide solution can sanitize the surface before planting. After any soaking or treatment, the rhizomes must be allowed to air-dry completely before being placed in the soil.