Zingiber officinale (Ginger)
Notify MeZingiber officinale (Ginger) is a tropical, herbaceous perennial grown for its aromatic, knobbly rhizomes, widely used in cooking, teas, and natural remedies. In addition to its culinary value, it produces upright stems of lush, lance-shaped green leaves and, in ideal conditions, may develop small, pale yellow-green flowers with purple markings. Typically reaches 1-1.2 metres high and 60-90 cm wide, making it well suited to subtropical, edible, and container garden styles.
Plant in partial shade to filtered sun with rich, free-draining, consistently moist soil. Best grown in a sheltered, frost-free location or large container that can be moved indoors in cooler climates. Space rhizomes 20-30 cm apart and cover lightly with soil. Water regularly during the growing season and mulch to retain moisture. Harvest rhizomes after 8-10 months, once the foliage begins to yellow and die back. Protect from strong wind and cold.
Trimming: Trim back old or yellowing stems as they die down naturally, typically in late autumn. In cooler regions, stems may fully die back-cut them to ground level after dormancy begins.
Deadheading: Not applicable, as ginger is primarily grown for its rhizomes rather than ornamental flowers. However, removing spent flower spikes can improve tidiness if they appear.
Fertilising: Feed every 3-4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertiliser or one slightly higher in potassium to support rhizome development. Apply compost or aged manure at planting and as a mid-season top-up.
Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy in autumn. Ginger thrives in warm, humid conditions and free-draining, rich soil.
Pest Control: Watch for aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs, especially in greenhouse or container-grown plants. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.
Disease Management: Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal issues. Use clean, disease-free rhizomes for planting, and remove any affected foliage promptly. In cooler climates, lift and store rhizomes in a dry, frost-free location over winter.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
