Turmeric is a well known spice that has been a part of Asian cuisine for a long period of time. It is also considered to be one of the most potent spices for treatment of several health problems because it has more than 600 preventive and therapeutic uses. It is highly effective in healing minor wounds as well.
This root has a chemical known as curcumin which possesses anti-inflammatory characteristics and it can therefore be used to lower inflammation, swelling, etc. If you do not want to spend too much money on store-bought turmeric roots and turmeric spice, you should know that you can grow your own supply at your house or apartment. The growing process is rather easy and anyone can do it.
Grow Your Own Turmeric
For this, you will need root cuttings since turmeric does not grow seeds. Just buy one turmeric root and then cut it into smaller pieces. Take one pot and fill it with organic soil which is a bit moist and well-drained. Next, start placing the turmeric pieces around 2 inches below the surface of the soil with the buds up. At the end, pour water, but not too much. Make sure you put organic fertilizer or compost tea into the soil twice per month.
Growing Instructions
Keeping the soil moist is vital, especially if you live in a hot and dry place. Water the root every 2 days with a spray bottle. In case you live in a place with a cooler climate, water it less frequently, but always make sure the soil is not overly soggy.
Harvesting the Turmeric
8 to 10 months need to pass so that the rhizomes become mature. Even though the stems and leaves are edible, turmeric is mostly harvested for its roots. When the rhizomes are large enough, pull them out of the soil and save few pieces for the next season planting. Make sure you replace the soil with a new one.
Storage and Usage
- Keep the turmeric roots in a cool and dry place
- To prepare turmeric spice, boil the roots for 45 minutes and then leave them to dry for 7 days. Then, grind the roots into spice and use it in meals or as an ingredient for homemade remedies
- Make sure to wear gloves while peeling the roots because your hands can become yellowish
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