🫚 Turmeric

Sowing window (UK)	March to April
Minimum soil temperature	18°C at seed depth
Sowing depth	3 cm
Spacing	30 cm apart
Days to germination	21 days
Days to harvest	240 days
Sowing method	Start under cover, transplant out
Frost hardy	No
Sun	partial-shade
Watering	high
Plant family	Zingiberaceae

When should I sow Turmeric in the UK?

In the UK, sow Turmeric from March to April. It is normally started under cover and transplanted. Wait until the soil has reached 18°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - turmeric will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Turmeric need to germinate?

Turmeric needs a minimum soil temperature of 18°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Turmeric?

For Turmeric, sow it 3cm deep and space plants 30cm apart.

How long does Turmeric take to grow?

Turmeric takes roughly 240 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 21 days.

Is Turmeric frost hardy?

No. Turmeric is not frost hardy. Do not put it outside until the risk of frost has passed in your area, and be ready to fleece it if a late frost is forecast.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.