Ginger’s medicinal fame existed in China over 3,000 years ago.
Many years later, he arrived in Europe.
Shortly thereafter, Europeans took it to the rest of the world.
In the past, ginger was a highly sought-after product and, therefore, quite expensive.
In 14th century England, a pound of it could cost as much as a sheep.
Today, ginger is widely used for its ability to speed up metabolism, which is important for those who want to lose weight.
It also has anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity, which is why it is recommended to help treat inflammation and pain.
It has many other medicinal properties.
For example, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes and recommends its use as a natural remedy for nausea.
Additionally, it is used to treat digestive problems, respiratory disorders, joint inflammation and menstrual pain.
We usually buy ginger at the market or supermarket.
But did you know that it is possible to plant ginger at home?
No?
Well, you should know that it is.
And that’s what you’re going to learn now.
PLANTING GINGER AT HOME: SELECTING A ROOT
Ginger found in the supermarket can be used to propagate home-grown seedlings.
Select rhizomes (roots) that are thick and smooth.
If the skin is dry and falling off, these are signs that the ginger may have been stored for too long, i.e. it is old, making it impossible to replant.
If the ginger is already sprouting, even better, as it is a potential seedling.
Once you have chosen the rhizome that is capable of being a seed, wrap the root in a damp paper towel and place it in a pot.
Keep this towel damp at all times.
When there are a good number of roots sprouting, we can plant the ginger.
PLANTING
Fill a deep pot at least 30cm deep and wide (and use a drainage tray) with a mixture of soil and compost (manure).
A container of this size should accommodate two to three roots.
Plant the rhizomes just below the surface of the soil and cover with a thin layer of soil (about 2 centimeters).
Keep the pot in a shady place if it is outside or, if it is inside, in a room with little sunlight.
Water sparingly at first, but increase as the roots grow more.
Ginger likes heat and humidity.
Keep the soil moist but not soggy and at least 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
In 12 months, the shoots should be about 60cm to 70cm tall.
THE HARVEST
If the plants are growing normally, the rhizomes can be harvested as needed.
A piece of the root can be cut off and what is left returned to the soil for continued growth.