In addition, soak store-bought ginger rhizomes in water overnight to rinse off any anti-growth chemicals the grocer may have added. Cutting your ginger root into pieces allows for more opportunity to plant and grow a successful ginger plant. This guide covers Zingiber officinale. Most Zingiber species will grow under similar conditions, but for best results follow the nursery instructions.
Alternatively, plant the chunks in a larger pot or in outdoor soil about 6–8 in (15–20 cm) apart. Like most garden plants, ginger prefers mildly acidic soils. If soil in your area is alkaline, adjust it to between 6. 1 and 6. 5 pH using a garden store pH kit. [5] X Research source If you’re planting outside in a seasonal climate, plant your ginger in mid-spring, since ginger is a tropical plant that does not survive frost. Plant after the last spring frost, or at the start of the wet season if you live in the tropics. [6] X Research source
In addition to regular watering, spray the aboveground portion of the plant about once a day with a spray bottle to keep it misted and hydrated in dryer climates.
In addition, add a thin layer of mulch to the surface of an outdoor ginger plant’s soil after sprouting to fend off weeds and retain water. [11] X Research source \
Once the weather turns again, simply transplant the ginger shoots to their old pots using the same methods as before, and bring the pots inside. Test the soil with a pH kit and ensure it’s at a pH of about 5. 5-6. 5. If it’s not, add pH-adjusting fertilizer accordingly. When you see new shoots form or the rhizome peek out from the soil, add about 1 in (2. 5 cm) of soil to the base of the plant.
A mature ginger plant will reach about 2–3 ft (0. 61–0. 91 m) in height.
Store ginger for up to 3 weeks in the fridge, or about 6 months in the freezer.
