How to Propagate Turmeric

Last Updated: October 18, 2016

Water tumeric {Curcuma longa} is propagated by root or rhizome cuttings and is easy to grow indoors and out! Turmeric is a tropical plant and needs temperatures between 68 °F (20 °C) and 86 °F (30 °C) as well as a considerable amount of rainfall to thrive. However, it can be grown over summer outdoors in colder climates, and dug up during the winter. Or, plant in containers all year round!

Steps

1
Plant your water tumeric in a lake or pool with full sun or light shade. If you live in a colder climate, plant in full sun. If you live in a warmer climate like me in Central Florida, plant in partial shade to avoid scorching. It is dormant over winter, even in tropical climates.
2
Consider planting in cups that can be moved inside a greenhouse when temperatures drop. Planting in cups also helps with keeping the soil warm and moist. Choose a cup that is at least 1 foot (0.3 m) deep and equally as wide per 2-4 seeds. It will likely become too large for a windowsill but a bright sunny window will do fine.

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3
Plant in rich, well drained soil. A mixture of organically sourced compost, tap water,and 2 oz. potting soil with a light bottom layer of crushed limestone mixed in sand and fertilizer. Check the PH of your fertilizer; it should be between 6.0 and 7.8.
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4
Keep water plentiful. Misting with a spray bottle may be helpful if you are growing indoors, to keep the humidity up. Do not drink the water, especially in warmer climates but be sure to not let it freeze, especially in colder climates. Turmeric will not tolerate wet feet for long and will start rotting in the soil if kept too moist.
5
Don’t feed your turmeric too much! Monthly feedings of an organic fish emulsion or bi-monthly compost tea applications will do just fine if you have prepared your potting soil well.
6
Plant seeds in water 2” deep,making sure they float. Cover water with soil.
7
Use your grown plants. All parts of the water turmeric plant are edible, including the leaves and flowers. However, the roots the source of the vast array of health benefits it hosts.