Turmeric is a superfood that commands a premium price at farmers markets and through direct sales—with some growers reporting prices as high as $80 per lb! After getting it started, it’s relatively easy to grow. Farmer Michael equates it to an old truck: “It might take a bit to get it started, but once running, it will go all day with not much care or work.” This Florida Red is a premium heirloom variety prized for its striking deep red interior and exceptionally high curcumin content. Unlike standard yellow turmeric, this red cultivar delivers a bolder color, richer earthy flavor, and enhanced health benefits, making it a standout choice for farmers, homesteaders, gardeners, and herbal enthusiasts alike. Key Features: Relatively Easy to Grow: Once it breaks dormancy, this variety hits the ground running and can yield several pounds per plant with minimal maintenance. High Curcumin Powerhouse: Boasts superior levels of curcumin – the active compound renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties. Ideal for daily wellness rituals, from golden lattes to soothing teas. Versatile Culinary Star: Harvest your own fresh rhizomes for grinding into a vivid red-orange spice that adds warmth and depth to curries, stir-fries, soups, and marinades. Its subtle bitterness and peppery notes pair perfectly with ginger, garlic, and coconut milk. Medicinal Heritage: Rooted in ancient Ayurvedic traditions, Florida Red supports joint health, digestion, and respiratory wellness. Fresh or dried, it’s a natural dye for textiles and a gentle remedy for everyday ailments. We Sell in Several Ways: Small Quantities with Free Shipping (order here) Full Cases (this listing) Pre-Started Plants (order here) Growing Guide: These robust, knobby rhizomes are easy to propagate once they break dormancy and can be successfully grown in northern Vermont (Zone 3/4) with proper care. 10-14 seed pieces per lb,spacing 12-18" apart in rows, 36" between rows.Download our growing Guide here Zone 8 and Warmer: Plant in spring after the last frost in well-drained, fertile soil enriched with compost. They prefer partial to full sun, consistent moisture, and warm temperatures (68–86°F). Space 8–12 inches apart, 2–4 inches deep, with buds facing up. Expect lush green foliage reaching 3–4 feet tall, accented by delicate white flower spikes in summer. Harvest in 8–10 months when leaves yellow – dig up the clustered rhizomes for immediate use or replanting. Zone 7 and Cooler: Best grown in protected culture, large pots, or against a protected south-facing wall. See propagation tips below. Propagation Challenges & Cool-Climate Tips: Red turmeric can be tricky to start, especially from dormant rhizomes, as it requires consistent heat and humidity to break dormancy. Do not expect sprouts for 3–4 weeks (sometimes longer if conditions fluctuate). In USDA Zone 7 and colder, outdoor planting is not recommended until soil temperatures reliably exceed 68°F. For reliable germination: Pre-sprout indoors in deep trays or bulb crates filled with moist peat moss or cocoa coir. Bury rhizomes 1–2 inches deep, buds up, and maintain 75–78°F using a heat mat. Keep medium evenly moist (not soggy) and cover with a clear lid or plastic to retain humidity. Once shoots emerge (1–2 inches), gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions after danger of frost has passed. [Click here to open our full Turmeric Growing Guide] Note: Although all the turmeric seed we offer is grown by farms that are certified organic, we are not allowed to label it "Certified Organic" due to 7 CFR § 205.2. The Farm On Central is in the process of becoming a Certified Handler for the 2026 season. All product provided for the 2026 season will be certified. Pro Tip: Mulch heavily and water deeply during dry spells for optimal yields (up to 2+ lbs per plant). Start your red revolution today – order now and unlock the ruby essence of this timeless superfood! This product is sourced from a partner farm that is committed to sustainable, regenerative, and environmentally responsible farming methods. These practices prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and the avoidance of synthetic inputs. NON-GMO Shipping: We start shipping End of February based on your weather and climate. Please let us know if you want shipment earlier and we can see what we can do. Early shipping may incur additional charges.
