Ginger or adrak is among the most prized and commonly used spices in Indian kitchens. The spice is valued not only for its rich and food-enhancing flavour but also for its medicinal properties. It is widely used in treating common colds and coughs across India in many ways. Adrak tea or kadha are considered quite beneficial. Now the good news is that you can also grow ginger in your kitchen garden, or in a pot on your balcony. It is surprisingly easy to grow at home and all you need is the right pot, good soil, and a little patience. Have a look at how you can grow your own chemical-free ginger at home.Choosing the right ginger rhizomeFirst thing first! Choose the right quality. Start with fresh and healthy ginger rhizomes. You can buy from a local market or nursery, just make sure the pieces are healthy and plump. These must have visible buds, just like potatoes. Don’t buy dried, or dead-looking ginger. The next step would be soaking the ginger pieces in water for 24 hours. This helps remove any chemical residue and sprouting. Cut the rhizome into 2–3 inch pieces. Every piece of ginger should have buds.Pot and soilGinger grows horizontally, so it is important to choose a wide pot. You don’t need a deep one. Make sure these pots have proper drainage holes. Now to make well-draining soil mix you need: 40% garden soil30% compost or vermicompost20% cocopeat10% sand or perliteHow to plant Now begins the planting process for which you need to cover your pot with a good soil mix. Gently place the ginger pieces flat with the buds facing upward. Put soil over them—enough to not to bury. Sprinkle water gently after planting. Next, keep the pot in a warm spot. Ginger plants love partial shade but not harsh, direct sun.CareWater the plant regularly, enough to keep the soil moist, not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering at all costs. During hot summers, water once every day; in cooler months, you can water only when you feel the soil is completely dry. Put organic compost or liquid seaweed fertiliser. This allows healthy growth. Harvesting
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Ginger takes about 8–10 months to mature. You can harvest after 4–5 months. For mature ginger, you’ll have to wait a little longer. Once harvested, wash the rhizomes, dry them in shade, and store in a cool, dry place. Fresh homegrown ginger has a stronger aroma and better flavour, but the best part is that these are chemical free compared to store-bought varieties.Growing ginger on your balcony is truly a rewarding experience!