How to Grow Turmeric Indoors—as a Houseplant or to Harvest

Growing turmeric (Curcuma longa) indoors is a simple and rewarding process. The most challenging part is being patient as you wait for the rhizome to sprout. Turmeric, a tropical plant related to ginger, is known for its golden color and spicy taste that adds flavor to smoothies, soups, stews, and other dishes.

Though it takes about seven to 10 months from planting to harvesting, you can enjoy a beautiful houseplant with large, vibrant green leaves in the meantime. To successfully grow turmeric indoors, consider these expert tips for optimal planting conditions, watering, and care. With the right approach, you can enjoy both the beauty and bounty of this amazing spice year-round.

Types of Turmeric to Grow Indoors

There are over 130 varieties of turmeric, and many notable types can be grown indoors, including yellow, black, red, and white turmeric. The most commonly used turmeric variety is yellow, known for its high yield and hardiness, says Brian Norman, president of United States of Turmerica Farms LLC. Black turmeric, on the other hand, is highly sought after and quite expensive due to its scarcity and low yield.  

When to Plant Turmeric Indoors

For best results, plant turmeric indoors in late winter, about ten months before the first fall frost. Because turmeric requires a long growing season, February is an excellent month to start growing this spice, says Norman.

How to Plant Turmeric Indoors

Turmeric is best grown from the plant's roots, or rhizomes, which is what you see at your grocery store. While you can grow turmeric purchased from a grocery store, it's best to use certified organic turmeric, as conventional turmeric may be treated with growth inhibitors or irradiated, says Ian Jerolmack, owner and operator of Stonecipher Farm. Here's how to grow turmeric from rhizomes:

1. Choose turmeric rhizomes with a few eyes, which is where new shoots develop.
2. Wash the turmeric thoroughly.
3. Cut the rhizomes into segments 1 to 2 inches long with a few eyes on each.
4. Let the segments sit for a few days.
5. Fill a container with rich, loamy soil. Plant the segments in the soil 2 to 4 inches deep and 6 inches apart with the eyes pointing upwards.
6. Water well and place the segments in a warm area with bright, indirect sunlight.
   

How to Care for Turmeric Indoors

Proper care for your turmeric plant will determine its success. Following these guidelines will help ensure your turmeric plant thrives indoors.

Sunlight

Turmeric needs at least six hours of sunlight to thrive. Although the leaves may sometimes appear stressed from too much sun, the rhizomes benefit greatly from receiving as much sunlight as possible, says Norman.

Soil

Turmeric grows best in well-balanced soil with a slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 7.0. While it can thrive in various soil types, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter, such as worm castings or manure, is ideal.

Water

Turmeric requires ample watering during the growing season, but avoid overwatering. Prolonged soaking, particularly in cooler temperatures, can lead to root rot.

Temperature

Maintain consistently warm temperatures of around 80 degrees Fahrenheit to encourage sprouting after planting. However, once grown, different types of turmeric have varying tolerances to certain conditions, says Norman. Yellow turmeric is highly cold-hardy and drought-tolerant. In contrast, white turmeric is more sensitive and can rot quickly if conditions are not ideal. Black turmeric can withstand cold temperatures, but you'll need to scale back your watering schedule accordingly.

Fertilizer

Fertilizer is unnecessary if you have healthy soil, says Norman, adding that the best fertilizer is worm castings made from organic produce.            

How to Harvest Turmeric Indoors

Unlike ginger, turmeric develops a primary stem with tubers growing around it, says Jerolmack. Turmeric is ready to be harvested when the leaves and stem turn brown and dry (about 10 months after planting). Gently pull up the entire plant to harvest, shaking off the soil. Alternatively, you can reach into the soil and break off the smaller rhizomes, which will not affect the primary root or stem of the plant, says Jerolmack. Every part of the root is edible, but the top of the primary stem tends to be less potent.