How-to Guide
How to Grow Ginger and Turmeric at Home
The short answer
Ginger and turmeric are tropical plants grown for their edible rhizomes. Start from plump, firm rhizome pieces with several eyes (growing points), planting them 2 to 4 inches deep and about 6 inches apart with the eyes pointing up. In cool climates, grow them in containers.
Both want warmth and humidity: at least 68 F, never below 50 F, with high humidity and plenty of bright shade. Ginger can reach about 3 feet tall, so use a roomy container. Harvest ginger by digging the whole plant at roughly 8 to 10 months of age.
Starting from rhizomes
- 1Pick good pieces โ Choose plump, firm rhizome sections with several eyes.
- 2Plant โ Set pieces 2 to 4 inches deep and about 6 inches apart, eyes pointing up.
Growing conditions and harvest
- Keep temperatures at least 68 F and never below 50 F.
- Provide high humidity and bright shade.
- Use a large container; ginger can reach about 3 feet tall.
- Harvest ginger by digging the whole plant at about 8 to 10 months.
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-18. We cite university Extension, government, and established horticultural sources โ and never invent pesticide rates or dangerous treatments.
- University of Georgia Extension โ Growing Ginger and Turmeric at Home โ Grow from rhizome pieces with eyes; plant 2โ4 in deep, 6 in apart, eyes up; ginger to ~3 ft; harvest ~8โ10 months
- University of Vermont Extension โ Growing Ginger and Turmeric Indoors โ Both grow best above 68 F, not below 50 F; like high humidity, warmth, and bright shade
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