Growing Ginger

Growing ginger has a vast array of health benefits, direct from nature. Ginger, Zingiber Officinale, provides us with healthy choices for food flavorings and herbal medicine. The use ginger dates back many thousands of years. History shows that the Chinese, Egyptians and Greeks had many uses for the root.

The Ginger plant is acclimated to tropical climates of its native forests in Asia. It’s important to make sure the plant remains in a warm and humid environment when growing ginger.

Although ginger likes heat, direct sunlight is not advisable. Ginger can be planted in a plant pot if preferred, either indoors, or out. The ginger plant will need to be kept inside if you live in a cold climate, especially in winter.

Growing ginger–

Ginger can be grown from the root or rhizome purchased from the supermarket. The night before you plant, soak the roots in warm water. Place the root in a pot filled with loose, rich potting mix. Ensure the pot use has good drainage. Apply peat moss or organic compost around the plant. Then cover the pot with a carrier bag or plastic sheeting, then position it in a place where the sun shines, but be sure the plant does not receive direct sunlight.

When the first shoots appear, remove the plastic bag. It is safe to move the plant into the garden when all danger of frost is past. Water the plant regularly when growing ginger, but make sure the soil does not become over watered or clogged.

Growing ginger plants can reach heights of forty eight inches. As it grows, its slender stems and glossy leaves may stretch up to a foot long. For the plant to prosper, it will need high humidity. Mist the plants often, and provide light shade and rich soil.

The best time for growing ginger is in the spring. It may take up to 5 months for the plant to come into harvest. To do this, the whole plant must be unearthed, to reach the root. Just poke holes in the soil gingerly and cut off what you need.

For the preservation of ginger, it can be dried indoors, kept in the refrigerator, or sun-dried.

Cooking With Your Growing Ginger:

Add ginger to your next stir fry to pep it up. Flavor meats, deserts, smoothies or veggies with ginger root. Spice up biscuits, teas and other recipes with ginger seasoning. To measure ginger, one teaspoon of crushed ginger powder equals one serving.

Growing Ginger for medical reasons–

Pregnant women often use ginger to relieve a stomachache or morning sickness. Ginger contains a substance called gingerol that relieves nausea. It is proven safe to take during pregnancy, all natural, and it causes no ill side effects. Ginger root can also be used for the treatment of arthritis and migraines. The plant is also suitable for aiding the symptoms of travel sickness, especially for those who do not like to take medication. Growing ginger for the intention of using in tea is recommended among homeopathic medicine professionals, for use against the symptoms of flu or cold virus.

Growing Ginger Tips–

Naturally, the most potent and effective ginger is that which is grown organically.

Harvest as much ginger as you like, but remember to put a budded piece back to replace what you use.

Never leave the ginger plant outside in cold temperatures. Outside temperatures lower than 50 degrees will stunt the growing ginger and may kill the plant.

Well done! You have made a good choice with your decision to grown ginger.

Try not to be afraid to get your hands dirty!

You will hit pay dirt, with fresh ginger on hand for cooking and taking care of your family‘s ills. (Not from your cooking!)