How to Grow Turmeric

Updated June 2026

A warm-season root for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

Turmeric is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Turmeric in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the turmeric page for exact timing.

Varieties

• Turmeric, Curcuma longa, from seed rhizomes (specialty growers)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: part sun to light shade, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 12 in between plants.
• Sowing: sow about 2 in deep.
• Water: roughly 1.3 gal per plant every 3 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

In humid regions, Rhizome rot can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Turmeric is usually ready to harvest in about 9 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant turmeric where you garden.

See also: Turmeric in the plant library →

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