Basic instructions to grow your own organic turmeric in any climate zone.
Source "seed" rhizomes of the varieties of turmeric you want to plant. (See variety notes in article.)
Tender, immature "baby" turmeric takes 6-8 months to develop. Mature rhizomes take 9-12 months to develop. In colder climate zones (7 or lower), you can get a multi-month jump on the season by starting seed rhizomes indoors in flats or pots. Then either transfer plants in-ground after last frost or move pots outdoors after last frost. Alternatively, starting under low tunnels can provide a jump on the season but is a bit riskier if a severe, late cold snap comes through.
Warmer climates (8+): plant individual fingers of turmeric in-ground or in pots after last frost date. Turmeric needs rich, consistently moist soil and temperatures between 70-90°F for optimal development. Amending or top-dressing the planting spot with quality compost or worm castings prior to planting is recommended. Or use organic/OMRI fertilizer in each hole. Once planted, apply 2-3" of mulch (wood chips, chopped leaves, etc) to soil surface to help prevent weeds and maintain optimal soil health.
Note: Turmeric plants grow to 6'+ tall and thrive in full sun, so select planting spots accordingly.
Spacing: Plant each turmeric finger at least 12″ apart, rows 24″ apart. If edible landscaping, cluster them together more densely.
Depth: Bury each node about 2-3″ deep.
Shoots will emerge from rhizomes in 2-4 weeks. Maintain even soil moisture or about 1" of water per week, irrigating if no rain.
After about 3 months, you'll see developing rhizomes popping through the soil surface. We recommend covering these rhizomes with an additional 2″ of compost + 2″ wood chips, aka “hill them up” to maximize development.
At first hard frost, turmeric leaves will wilt and die back to the ground. Cut the stalks just above the soil line and use a shovel to dig entire rhizomes from ground. Use garden pruners to remove roots growing off of rhizomes. Use a garden sprayer to blast off soil.
Allow rhizomes to dry indoors under a ceiling fan for 2-3 weeks (don't pile them). Then place in cardboard box or breathable containers for long-term storage. Turmeric rhizomes (baby or mature) can be stored for at least 6 months.
How to grow organic turmeric anywhere https://www.tyrantfarms.com/how-to-grow-organic-turmeric-and-ginger-anywhere/