Introduction
With more people becoming aware of how important it is to eat organic food, growing turmeric indoor is an option many should consider. For many that do not have space, growing turmeric indoors is an option. Turmeric, also known as Curcuma Longa, is a widely used tropical plant in cooking and traditional medicine. It is native to South Asia, although it grows in many parts of the world. Turmeric is also thought to be a balancing agent for achieving balance among the three doshas in the body (Veta, Pitta, and Kapha) in Ayurveda medicine. It has a warm, slightly bitter, and earthy flavor, and it is known for its bright yellow color.
Start with a rhizome (a piece of turmeric root) and plant it in a warm, sunny location with well-draining soil if you want to grow turmeric indoors. In this article, we describe how to grow turmeric indoors, including procedures and some success tips.
Unlike other crops that use seedlings to grow, turmeric plant propagation is through good-quality dry root cuttings (rhizomes). Make sure to get good-quality rhizomes if you want to succeed. Turmeric superfood grows to a height of about three feet and is a rhizome, which means it grows underground and spreads horizontally.
The turmeric plant takes between seven and ten months to mature. When deciding on a planting month, keep this maturity period in mind. You are probably better off planting in the late winter for good results. The plants prefer warm, humid climates and plenty of sunlight. They grow best when they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. If you live in a temperate climate, you will need to provide your turmeric plants with enough artificial light to simulate the sun’s rays. Planting turmeric rhizome during winter can be challenging, leaving the option of indoor gardening necessary.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to grow plants at home
Choose the right variety of turmeric for your area
Curcuma Longa has been found to have more than 133 species around the world, but not all of them can be grown at home. Some varieties are better suited for large-scale commercial production than for small-scale home gardening. Therefore, it is essential to choose a variety that is suitable for home cultivation. Some popular varieties for home cultivation include “Zedoary,” “Etawah,” and “Nizamabad.”. You will need to find out the variety that works best in your area for indoor and home gardening.
Select the right location
Temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit are the best for growing turmeric. Additionally, it favors soil with good drainage and some shade. Avoid locations with sharp temperature changes or powerful winds. The beauty of growing turmeric is that it can be grown in pots and brought indoors during the winter if you live in a cold climate.
Prepare the soil
The best soil for growing turmeric is one that drains well, is loose and free from clumps, and is full of organic matter. Compost or well-rotted manure should be added to the soil before planting to increase fertility and structure. The pH of the soil should range from 6 to 7. The growth and development of the plants can be affected by the soil’s acidity or alkalinity. To find out the pH of your soil, use a soil pH test kit. By adding lime for more alkaline soil or sulfur for more acidic soil, the pH of the soil can be changed.
Propagate turmeric
Turmeric is propagated through rhizomes, which are underground stems that grow horizontally. To propagate turmeric, you will need to start with a rhizome that is at least 2 inches long and has several buds. You can purchase a rhizome from a local nursery or online. Alternatively, you can ask a friend who grows turmeric to share a piece of their rhizome with you.
Plant the rhizomes in a 14- to 18-inch planter
The plants need a house. Which is either a pot or a planter. Plant the rhizomes in the prepared soil, with the buds facing upwards. The spacing between the rhizomes should be at least 12 inches apart, and they must be buried 2 to 3 inches deep. Water the soil gently and keep it moist until the plants are established. Place the planter or pot in the warmest spot in the house.
Care for the plants
Although you have a lot of work on your plate, you will need to take care of your plants. Turmeric’s growth requires consistent moisture to do well. Water the plants regularly. Make sure the soil is evenly moist. Note that excess water can cause the rhizomes to rot. Turmeric also requires regular fertilization to support its growth and development. Use natural manure that can be made effortlessly at home or you buy some.
Monitor for Pests and Diseases
Although turmeric plants are generally resistant to diseases and pests, they can sometimes be affected by mites, aphids, or fungal infections. You need to be watchful for signs of these problems regularly and take corrective action on time. A mixture of water and dish soap can kill pests. Fungal and other infections can be treated with pesticides. Organic pesticides should be your first choice.
Harvest the turmeric
Depending on the variety and growing conditions, your turmeric will mature in 9 to 10 months. To harvest the turmeric rhizomes, carefully dig up the rhizomes out of the soil using a garden fork. The rhizomes should be firm and have a bright yellow or orange color. Then cut off the leaves and roots. Wash them with running water to remove soil debris and dirt.
Store the turmeric for later use
After harvesting, the turmeric needs to be cured before it can be used. To cure, spread them out on a clean surface and let them air-dry for a few days. Once they are dry, remove the stems and leaves and store them in a cool, dry place. Fresh turmeric can retain its flavor for between 6 and 9 months in an airtight container in the fridge. Turmeric powder can last between 36 and 48 months.
Read About The Benefits of Turmeric And Ginger
Key Take Away in Growing Turmeric Indoors
- Choose rich soil with compost. This is turmerics food.
- Use loose and free from clumps.
- Plant the turmeric rhizomes with the “eyes” facing upwards.
- Space them 2 inches apart.
- Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize the plants with organic fertilizer (if possible)
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