How to grow Turmeric

Curcuma domestica

Partial Sun
OR
Dappled Sun
Very High

Like all herbaceous perennials clumps of turmeric need to be broken up and fresh pieces planted every 3 to 4 years.

Rhizomes are harvested 9 to 10 months after planting, the lower leaves turning yellow or stems drying and falling over are indications of maturity. It is possible for the home gardener to just dig carefully at the side of a clump and remove rhizomes as needed rather than harvesting the whole clump.

Growing Turmeric from seed

Grown from setts [small rhizomes].

Try to aim for a seed spacing of at least 5.85 inches (15.0 cm) and sow at a depth of around 2.34 inches (6.0 cm).

Transplanting Turmeric

Plant in early Spring into a warm soil.
It requires a well-drained soil, frost-free climate and 1000 to 2000mm of rain annually or supplementary irrigation. It thrives best on loamy or alluvial fertile soils and cannot stand waterlogging. Heavy shade will reduce the yield but light shade is beneficial.

Ensure that temperatures are mild (minimum night temperatures should be around -10°C / 14°F) and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Turmeric is a tender plant.

How long does Turmeric take to grow?

These estimates for how long Turmeric takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world.

Days to Germination How long does it take Turmeric to germinate?: days
Average days | Min days | Max days (0)
Days to Transplant How long until I can plant out Turmeric?: + days
Average days | Min days | Max days (0)
Days to Maturity How long until Turmeric is ready for harvest / bloom?: + 300 days
Average 300 days | Min days | Max days (0)
Total Growing Days How long does it take to grow Turmeric?: = days

Other names for Turmeric

Indian saffron

Curcuma longa