The seeds of ginger germinate in rich organic and moist soil around spring or summer. After abundant water supply, either in the form of rain or irrigation, the stem surfaces above the ground and is liable to reach the height of 6 ft. Below the surface, the horizontal stem i.e. rhizome begins the accumulation of starch and sugar which results in swelling. Numerous lobes emerge which serve as a medium for further propagation of rhizome by growing new stems.
When temperature spikes to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and the blessing of rain bestow its politeness, yellow-green hued flowers with purple base bloom. They are rarely pollinated by insects to bring about fertilization and formation of seed.
The plant dies when it does not receive the annual rain but its rhizomes remain dormant and wait for a shower to re-sprout again. But excessive drought, cold weather and sustain submersion in water such as that of the flood may subject to permanent death of the whole plant.
Want your ginger to be as firm as that found in the grocery store?
Then wait for at least 10 to 12 months for harvesting a perfectly solid ginger rhizome. Although the rhizome is ready to be harvested after a wait of 4 months but the proportion you will get will be quite less and wouldn’t satiate your needs. Moreover, it is advised to cut off small sections of it to let the plant grow more.
Another key point that ensures the maturation of rhizome is the death of its leaves in fall or winter. Harvesting after fall or winter also gives you the ginger of your dreams. The color of the rhizome must be a mix proportion of yellow-brown and red.
The flesh of the rhizome of ginger is of utmost importance and sole reason for the cultivation of this reputable plant.
Dig up the soil if you want a small amount of plant but if you are yearning for a cosmic proportion, then you need to dig up your whole plant to get it.
On the other hand, the flowers of ginger are utilized for ornamental purposes due to their exquisite color and features. Just snip off the flowers all the while leaving a good proportion of stalk to let them stand in your vase and you are good to go.
The unpeeled ginger rhizome should be stored in a jar or resealable plastic bag with no mark of air. If you have the ginger or some part of its flesh is exposed then dry it with a paper towel prior to storage in the refrigerator.