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How to Grow a Japanese Ginger Bud

The Japanese myoga ginger (Zingiber mioga) makes a distinct and rare addition to gardens in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7a through 10b. In the summertime, this perennial tuber sports yellow flower buds which, along with the plant's edible roots, lend themselves to recipes as diverse as pickles, oils, tempura dishes and dressings. Like virtually all plants of the Zingiberaceae family, myoga ginger grows quickly and requires little care, making it a suitable choice for green thumbs of any skill level.

Things You'll Need

  • General-purpose fertilizer
  • Sawdust mulch
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use well-drained soil for your myoga ginger. This plant isn't terribly picky about soil type, but it prefers fertile, nutrient-rich soil. Give each plant about 4 or 5 feet of space if growing outdoors; these plants multiply rapidly, easily occupying that much space within a few years. If you're using a pot, use one with a depth of at least 15 inches to accommodate the mature plant. Position your plant so that it receives sunlight with partial or dappled shade.

    • 2

      Water myoga ginger regularly, only allowing the topsoil to dry out between waterings. Water slowly and deeply. Although ginger enjoys plenty of water and moist soil, standing or pooling water indicates overwatering; remember, poorly drained soil retards the growth of myoga ginger.

    • 3

      Fertilize this plant once a every two to four weeks after it's established. Use a general-purpose plant fertilizer, following any instructions or warnings provided by the manufacturer. Apply a layer of sawdust mulch in a perimeter around the stem during the plant's second year to help control weeds.