What's Growing
Ginger
Zingiber officinale
Ginger is a thick, branching rhizome which means that it is both planted and grown under the soil. It has a light brown outer layer and grows false stems or (pseudostems) made of tightly wrapped leaf bases which produce long, elegant leaves. Ginger is a part of the Zingiberaceae family which makes it kin to other rhizomes like turmeric and cardamom. You don’t have to buy seeds to grow ginger, you can use what you find at any local grocery store!
Harvesting
Harvesting ginger is like harvesting potatoes: you want to dig up the whole plant! Ginger can be harvested at any stage of its growing process, but the best time to harvest is when the plant is 8-10 months old. To grow more ginger, simply choose rhizomes for replanting and redo the process.
- Ginger is ready for harvest when the plant has blossomed. By this time, leaves should be dry and stems falling over. The rhizomes will have a firm skin.
Uses
There are so many uses for ginger! It is a great cure for an upset stomach and other ailments like migraines and improves immunity. In addition, it is a common ingredient in cooking; once peeled and grated or cut, ginger is used as a powerful flavoring agent in sauces, glazes, marinades, soups, and more.
