Also known as Ginger · 34 saves
Zingiber
Zingiber, the genus most gardeners know as ginger. We track 5 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 5 most-saved Zingiber varieties
2 species of Zingiber
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Zingiber in Sow
Save the Zingiber you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Zingiber
Whats common across all Zingiber varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 5 most-grown of them.
The Zingiber year
- HarvestJuly–September100% of varieties
Harvest the unopened flower buds at the base of the plant for culinary use.
- DivideMarch and April80% of varieties
Divide rhizomes in early spring just as new growth begins.
- Winter PrepOctober and November80% of varieties
Cut foliage back to the ground after it has been killed by frost.
- FertilizeApril and June60% of varieties
Apply a balanced, organic fertilizer in spring and again in mid-summer.
- PlantApril60% of varieties
Plant rhizomes in spring in a rich, moist, well-drained soil in part shade.
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Keep soil consistently moist 🌱.
- Apply organic compost annually.
- Prune dead or damaged leaves to promote healthy growth.
- Apply organic mulch annually
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent rot ❌
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌.
- Do not expose to direct full sun in hot climates.
- Refrain from using harsh chemical fertilizers.
What goes wrong with Zingiber
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue on leaves, distorted growth | Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. |
| Root rot | Wilting, yellowing leaves, mushy rhizomes | Improve soil drainage, reduce watering |
| Spider Mites | Fine webbing on leaves, yellowing | Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Root-knot nematodes | Stunted growth and root galls | Use organic nematode control or crop rotation |
| Rhizome rot | Soft, rotting rhizomes with foul smell | Ensure well-draining soil and reduce watering. |
| Leaf Spot | Brown or black spots on leaves | Remove affected leaves, improve air circulation |
| Root Rot | Wilting, blackened roots | Improve drainage, reduce watering, treat with organic fungicide |
Making more Zingiber
Rhizome division
- Dig up mature rhizomes in early spring.
- Divide rhizomes into sections with at least one bud each.
- Plant divisions in prepared soil, spacing 12 inches apart.
- Water thoroughly and mulch to retain moisture.
Zingiber questions
How many types of Zingiber are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 5 distinct Zingiber varieties. The most popular — ranked by 34 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Zingiber grow in?
Across its varieties, Zingiber covers USDA Zones 6–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Zingiber bloom?
Most Zingiber varieties bloom in late summer, early summer. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Zingiber should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.