How to Grow Ginger in New Zealand
Ginger is subtropical, so it is happiest in sheltered, warm spots in Auckland, Northland and the Bay of Plenty. Plant rhizomes with visible eyes around 5cm deep in spring once the soil warms, in rich, moist, well-drained soil under heavy mulch. The leaves die back in autumn, and that is your cue to harvest.
When to plant ginger in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | September, October, November, December |
| Auckland | September, October, November, December |
Best ginger varieties for NZ
- Common Yellow Ginger — Standard culinary ginger grown from fresh, plump greengrocer rhizomes. (Garden centres, greengrocer rhizomes (Kings Plant Barn guides))
- Myoga (Japanese Ginger) — Grown for its edible flower buds and shoots rather than rhizomes; hardier. (Specialty nurseries)
How to grow ginger
- Space plants about 25cm apart.
- Sow seed around 5cm deep.
- Position: part shade.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 270 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 30 days.
Companion planting
Grow ginger near: Turmeric.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Aphids. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant ginger in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in September, October, November, December. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy ginger seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Garden centres, greengrocer rhizomes (Kings Plant Barn guides), Specialty nurseries.