Turmeric (Curcuma domestica syn Curcuma longa) is a perennial plant of the ginger family that reaches a height of at least 1 meter. It is native to Southeast Asia and is used for its underground rhizomes, a famous ingredient as curry powder for coloring foods, especially the famous chicken curry, Campbell’s chicken soup, mustard and other curry sauces in high-class restaurants. It is also used as a natural dye for some fabrics and other items.
It also has medicinal properties as a natural pain reliever and is said to help cure cancer.
It is the main ingredient in almost Indian curry powders and is sometimes known by the name of Indian saffron, but it is not related to saffron at all.
growth requirements
I usually. Well-drained soil with rich organic materials is an ideal soil for planting turmeric.
Light. The area should be exposed to full sunlight at least 5-7 hours a day. If the place is shady, look for a light shade with exposure to sunlight during the day.
Water. Tumeric tolerates well with a regular supply of water throughout its growth period. Don’t overwater as the roots will rot with too much water supply.
vegetal Nutricion. The soil should be rich in organic materials with additional fertilizer if the plant shows slower growth during the reproductive phase.
Planting. Select a fresh, plump rhizome with 2 – 3 buds per seed piece and place it in the germination tray until sprouts emerge after 3 weeks. After exposing your seedlings to gradual sunlight, transplant each seedling into your prepared plots 12 to 16 rows apart. If planting in containers, place one seedling in each pot.
Control of pests and diseases. Spider mites and aphids are the only insect pests that attack turmeric. To control them, simply spray the leaves with an insecticidal soap to wash them off. A common disease is leaf spot, a fungal infection. Use Bordeaux fungicide to control this disease.
Harvest. Harvest the rhizomes after 250 days or 9 to 10 months after planting when the leaves turn yellow and the stems are drying. Dig carefully at the base of the plant and harvest the rhizomes. If you’re harvesting them for home use, simply remove a portion of the clump and leave the rest for future use.
Happy gardening!