Sand ginger (Kaempferia galanga) is a unique aromatic member of the ginger family. Unlike common ginger, it stays low to the ground and forms a beautiful rosette of leaves. It’s prized for its strong fragrance in cooking and traditional uses. Although it’s a tropical plant, gardeners in many parts of the U.S. can grow it successfully with the right care. 

 

1. Climate & USDA Zones

Sand ginger grows best as a perennial in USDA Zones 9–12. In cooler climates (Zones 5–8), it can still be grown successfully if:  

• planted in containers 
• moved indoors before frost 
• or the rhizomes are dug up and stored during winter 

The plant cannot survive freezing temperatures.  

2. Light Requirements

Sand ginger prefers:  

• Partial shade (ideal) 
• Morning sun + afternoon shade 
• Avoid strong, full afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves 

It is naturally an understory forest plant, so it enjoys dappled light.  

3. Soil Requirements

Use a soil mix that is:  

• Well-draining 
• Rich in organic matter 
• Slightly moist but never soggy 

A simple mix that works well:  

• 50% potting soil 
• 30% compost 
• 20% perlite or coarse sand 

Good drainage is essential to prevent rhizome rot.  

4. Planting the Rhizomes

1. Use fresh, firm sand ginger rhizomes. 
2. Plant them 1–2 inches deep, horizontal to the soil. 
3. Keep the soil lightly moist. 
4. Place the pot or bed in partial shade. 
5. Sprouts usually appear in 2–6 weeks, depending on warmth. 

Sand ginger likes warm soil. Growth begins faster once soil temperatures reach 70–85°F.  

5. Watering

• Keep soil evenly moist, not wet. 
• Allow the top ½ inch of soil to dry before watering again. 
• Avoid letting water sit in the saucer if you grow it in a pot. 

Overwatering is the #1 cause of failure.  

6. Fertilizing

Feed lightly during the growing season (spring through summer):  

• A balanced fertilizer (e.g., 5-5-5 or 10-10-10) 
• Or a gentle organic fertilizer such as compost tea or fish emulsion 

Avoid heavy feeding — sand ginger is not a heavy feeder.  

7. Seasonal Growth Cycle

Sand ginger has a natural dormant period:  

• Leaves grow from spring to fall 
• In late fall, the plant naturally dies back 
• The rhizomes rest underground during winter 

This is normal and not a sign of plant failure.  

8. Winter Care

Zones 9–12

• Leave the plant in the ground; it returns each year. 

Zones 5–8

Choose one of the following: Option A: Overwinter Indoors (Best Method)  

• Grow in a pot 
• Bring indoors before the first frost 
• Keep soil just barely moist (almost dry) 

Option B: Dig Up Rhizomes  

• After frost kills the leaves, lift the rhizomes 
• Clean gently and air-dry for a day 
• Store in a cool, dry place in peat moss or dry coconut coir 
• Replant in spring 

9. Harvesting Sand Ginger

Harvest when:  

• Leaves have died back naturally 
• At the end of the growing season 
• Or anytime after 6–9 months of growth 

You may harvest part of the clump and leave the rest to regrow. After harvest, rhizomes can be:  

• used fresh 
• dried and ground 
• or saved for replanting 

10. Common Growing Mistakes

Avoid these:  

• Overwatering the rhizomes 
• Planting in heavy, compacted soil 
• Full, harsh afternoon sun 
• Allowing plants to freeze 
• Expecting growth during winter dormancy 

Final Tips

• Warm soil = faster sprouting 
• Partial shade = healthier leaves 
• Good drainage = essential 
• Dormancy is normal — not a problem 
• In cooler zones, treat sand ginger like a tender tropical plant