and cuttings can be used , with a relative humidity of 80 to 90 per cent . Because the plants produce an underground crop of rhizomes , a soft , friable , moisture retentive growing substrate is ideal . Coco fiber fines mixed with 20 per cent perlite or a vermiculite / perlite mix is ideal , although the plants are quite adaptable to a range of other substrates . Large pots , buckets , and beds are ideal , provided the depth of substrate is at least 12 inches to allow for the large size of the root system at plant maturity .
SYSTEMS & GROWING CONDITIONS
Drip hydroponic systems are most suitable for growing ginger and turmeric , and these heat-loving plants will happily grow alongside tomatoes , capsicums , cucumbers , melons , and other fruiting plants because they have similar nutritional requirements . Once ginger and turmeric plants have two to three leaves , light levels can be increased to full strength , with similar intensities as many other high light crops grown in indoor gardens . While shading can be tolerated and doesn ’ t detract from the attractive nature of the foliage , it does reduce rhizome yields and increases the time to harvest . Ginger plants are best mounded up as the rhizomes develop . Mounding refers to adding more growing medium around the base of the plant , which helps increase yields and the quality of the harvested product . Day length is not an issue with these plants , but they do need warmth with optimal levels of 72-86 ° F , although both will happily grow at temperatures higher than this . Cool conditions will slow or prevent growth , so these plants are ideal candidates for growing outdoors in summer and bringing inside to overwinter and continue producing in winter in the tropical heat and light of a well-lit indoor garden .
Hydroponic turmeric plant growing in coconut fiber substrate .
HUMIDITY
Ideally , ginger and turmeric prefer humid conditions of 70 to 90 per cent . By growing them in large , densely planted clumps , they can create their own micro climate of humidity . This , combined with a damp growing medium , tends to lead to optimal growth . Low humidity will cause the lower , older leaves to develop slight tip burn , which can be trimmed if necessary . Placing ginger or turmeric plants in the most humid area of an indoor garden is the best course of action .
NUTRIENTS
General-purpose nutrient solutions at an EC of 2.2-2.6 can be applied to ginger and turmeric crops . However , switching to a fruiting or bloom formulation at a higher EC seems to assist with intensifying the flavor and aromatic profile of the rhizomes . Your pH levels are best maintained around 5.7 or 5.8 to maximize nutrient uptake .
“ PLACING GINGER OR TURMERIC PLANTS IN THE MOST HUMID AREA OF AN INDOOR GARDEN IS THE BEST COURSE OF ACTION .”
Maximum Yield USA | January 2017 111