A common spice found in many different cuisines around the world, ginger is also well-known for its therapeutic benefits. Although it can be a little challenging, harvesting ginger can be a rewarding experience if you have the correct skills and equipment. Everything you need to know about harvesting ginger will be covered in this post.
When to harvest ginger
When the stems begin to wither and the leaves begin to turn yellow, ginger is ready to be picked. Depending on the type and growing circumstances, this normally occurs 8 to 10 months after planting. To guarantee that the ginger has developed to its full flavor potential, it is crucial to wait until the plant has achieved full maturity before harvesting.
Tools needed for harvesting ginger
To harvest ginger, you'll need a digging fork or shovel, a pair of pruning shears, and gloves. The gloves will shield your hands from the ginger rhizomes' cutting blades.
How to harvest ginger
To begin harvesting ginger, trim the stems and leaves to a height of 1-2 inches above the earth. After that, carefully dig around the plant with a shovel or digging fork to expose the ginger rhizomes and loosen the soil. When using the fork or shovel, take care not to harm the rhizomes.
Once the ginger rhizomes are exposed, you can carefully pull them out of the ground with your hands or pruning shears. Ensure that the rhizomes are completely free of dirt, but take care not to harm them. Remove the rhizomes' stems and roots, but leave approximately an inch of stem on each one.
Tips for handling and storing ginger
After harvesting, thoroughly clean the ginger rhizomes in lukewarm water to get rid of any dirt that may have remained. After that, leave them to dry for a few hours or overnight in a well-ventilated place.
Each ginger rhizome should be wrapped in a paper towel before being placed in a plastic bag or other container with a lid to store it. Ginger can be frozen for longer storage or kept in the refrigerator for up to two to three weeks.
Can I harvest ginger before the leaves turn yellow?
Ginger should not be picked before the leaves turn yellow and the stalks begin to wilt. This is so that the ginger plant can grow and mature, which will allow its flavor and essential oils to fully develop. Early ginger harvesting might lead to less tasty and potent ginger roots. The plant's capacity to produce more ginger in the future may also be harmed by harvesting ginger before it has reached full maturity. Therefore, it is better to hold off on harvesting ginger until the plant is fully ripe.
Final Thought
Ginger harvesting can initially seem difficult, but with the correct equipment and skills, it can be a profitable and enjoyable experience. Always wait until the plant is fully grown-out before harvesting, and handle the rhizomes from the soil with care. You'll soon be collecting ginger like an expert with the help of these suggestions!
