Grow Ginger in Vietnam: Treasured Spice ️Derived from Soil

Fresh ginger is a key ingredient around the world and adds a vibrant kick of flavor and aroma to dishes. Vietnam boasts some of the most flavorful ginger in the world, thanks in part to its unique growing conditions. Farmers in Vietnam, particularly in the mountainous regions, cultivate ginger using traditional methods. But do you know in detail how the farmers grow fresh ginger? Let’s find out in this post!

1. The conditions to grow Ginger

The ideal condition for ginger to thrive is the tropical climate. Firstly, the average annual temperature is between 21°C and 27°C. Secondly, the annual rainfall should be 1,500 to 2,500 mm. Next, ideal altitudes for ginger cultivation are below 1,500 meters above sea level. Moreover, ginger requires loose soil with good water retention also well-drained. Loamy soil is preferable, while sandy or clay soil should be avoided. Last and important, hilly, mountainous, or upland areas with high humus content are excellent for growing ginger.

Luckily, the mountainous region in Vietnam combines all the factors that ginger prefers to grow. That’s why Vietnam can supply abundant sources of fresh ginger for domestic and global demand.

2. How Vietnamese farmers grow Ginger

Before we delve into planting, let’s clear up a common point. Ginger isn’t actually a root, but an underground stem called a rhizome. This “rootstock” is what we use and how ginger is propagated. Ginger rhizomes are bumpy and knobby, with little bumps or “eyes” that are actually buds waiting to sprout.

Initially, they choose organic, plump ginger with healthy-looking “eyes.” Besides, avoid any ginger that appears shriveled or diseased.

The farmers cut the ginger rhizome into pieces, ensuring each section has at least one or two “eyes”. Then they plant the ginger pieces cut-side down, at a depth of about 3-5 cm and spaced 9-12 cm apart.

Vietnamese ginger farmers cultivate this flavorful crop with care, taking advantage of the ideal climate. Planting typically occurs in the warm spring months, between January and February or April and May. This allows the ginger to thrive during the hot and humid Vietnamese summer. 

The secret lies in the soil – ginger prefers loose, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Many regions in Vietnam boast these perfect conditions, making them prime locations for ginger production.

Throughout the growing season, which lasts around 8-10 months, farmers meticulously take care of their ginger patches. Weeding and watering are crucial to ensure the plants receive the nutrients and moisture they need. From that, ginger can produce plump, flavorful tubers and a unique spicy flavor. Some farmers may also use natural fertilizers or pest control methods to keep their crops healthy.

3. Reap the rewards: Harvesting Ginger

As the weather cools down towards the end of the year, from October to December, the ginger reaches its peak. When the ginger matures, the leaves turn yellow and the stems dry out. These are signs that the ginger is ready for harvest! 

They carefully dig up the ginger rootstocks, using shovels or forks to avoid damaging the precious tubers. Then they sort ginger by size and quality, selecting the plump and firm ones. The biggest and healthiest ginger has the highest prices.

After harvest, the ginger’s journey continues. Fresh ginger can be stored unwashed in a cool, dark, and humid place. However, some farmers wash to remove all dirt and impurities. Then they pack the fresh ginger for sale or export purposes. 

For dried ginger, the ginger undergoes a special drying process to preserve it for longer periods. These steps ensure that Vietnamese ginger reaches kitchens around the world, bringing its unique flavor and aroma to countless dishes.

About us

Havigo Company Limited operates in the field of agricultural export. We wish to bring high-quality Vietnamese agricultural products such as spices, rice, beans, and fruits… to the world. We supply you with high-quality products at the best price. If you find interested in importing Vietnam Fresh Ginger, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for better support via WhatsApp: +84 979 58 58 56.