Within the plant genus of the ginger family, there are around 80 plant species that are referred to as turmeric or turmeric and saffron root. Some species are grown in gardens and on windowsills not only for their bulbs, but also for the magnificent flowers.

The cultivation of turmeric is not only worthwhile because of the healthy tubers

That is why the cultivation of turmeric is worthwhile

Most people in this country have already seen a turmeric plant in a garden store and admired its flowers sitting on a pseudostem of leaves. Unlike many other flowering plants with similarly showy flowers, turmeric is not poisonous. Unfortunately, a lack of knowledge about how to care for these plants is to blame for the fact that they are often hastily disposed of on the compost heap after the leaves have died. It is surprisingly easy to grow the saffron root yourself as a decorative summer bloomer or to use the rhizomes in the kitchen.

With the right care, the saffron root multiplies almost by itself

If possible, the turmeric tubers should be grown indoors before moving outdoors so that the frost-sensitive plants can really take off from May. The location should be as evenly warm as possible and have a comparatively high humidity. Locations with all-day sun next to house walls should be avoided, as the hot drought can "burn" the plants here. The substrate should be able to store moisture well, otherwise it has to be watered very regularly. A single rhizome of the saffron root can grow to a weight of up to 1.5 to 3 kg by autumn. This must be dug up in good time before the first night frosts and overwintered indoors.

Different uses for homegrown turmeric tubers

You can use your self-cultivated and harvested turmeric tubers for different purposes:

  • for propagation and cultivation of new plants in the following year
  • as a spice and coloring agent
  • as a fresh seasoning ingredient in Southeast Asian cooking recipes

The use of the finely ground powder from dried turmeric tubers to yellow food has a long tradition and is still very important today.

tips

Saffron or turmeric has long been said to have various positive effects on human health. There is only disagreement in science with regard to the inhibiting or promoting effect on cancer cells through the consumption of turmeric. As with all other foods, the consumption of turmeric should always be balanced with other foods.

Category:

Vegetable garden