How Do I Harvest Turmeric?

Turmeric root, Curcuma longa, adds flavor and color to food. The roots, dried and powdered, have a slightly earthy bitter taste. The orange-yellow roots infuse food with color, particularly starches like rice as well as vegetable dishes, soups, stews and curries. Turmeric comes from Southeast Asia. A member of the Zingiberaceae plant family, turmeric and ginger are close relatives. Harvest turmeric root in the fall. The roots are edible during all stages of development but are biggest in the fall after a full growing season.

Things You'll Need

• Shears
• Garden fork
• Bucket or bag

Show More

Instructions

1. • 1

     Harvest turmeric when the leaves begin to dry out and yellow. In areas with cold winters, harvest turmeric before the first frosts. Cut the leaves down to the ground.

   • 2

     Place a garden fork in the soil 2 to 3 inches from the edge of the turmeric plant. Slide the fork into the soil underneath the roots.

   • 3

     Pull back on the handle to lift the turmeric roots from the ground. Shake off as much dirt as possible. Place the roots in a bag or bucket.

   • 4

     Wash the dirt off in the sink or under the hose. Keep turmeric in the refrigerator to use fresh sliced or grated into food.