Ask an Expert: Can you advise on growing turmeric in the Lowcountry?
“Turmeric (Curcuma longa) grows very well here in filtered light or part shade. After the last frost, plant a rhizome an inch under the ground and keep it moist until the first stalk emerges. Once the plant is about a foot tall, fertilize it every two weeks until the leaves begin to brown around late September. Stop feeding and watering, and allow the turmeric to let its energy fall into the safety of the earth for the colder months. The root will be most nutrient dense if you wait to harvest until after the leaves have died to the ground in the fall.” —John Warren, owner of Spade & Clover Gardens
Gardening Tip: Growing from seed can be tricky, but buying all your herbs and veggies in nurseries adds up fast. The perfect middle ground? Plugs: small seedlings grown in modular trays that are planted with a fully intact, healthy root system. Shop online sources such as harrisseeds.com.
Dig It: What’s happening this month?
MARCH 1-17
CAMELLIA WALKS
Take a guided tour centered around the historical camellias at Middleton Place. You’ll spy hundreds of varieties, including the 1786 ‘Reine des Fleurs‘. Reservations are required. Middleton Place, 4300 Ashley River Rd. Tuesday, Thursday, & Saturday, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free with admission: $28; $15 student; $10 ages six-13. middletonplace.org
MARCH 12
CHS LECTURE SERIES
Native plant enthusiast Ernest Koone III speaks at this month’s Charleston Horticultural Society lecture. The Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting St. Monday, 6:30-7:30 p.m. $10;
free for member. chashortsoc.org
MARCH 15-APRIL 21
FESTIVAL OF HOUSES & GARDENS
Historic Charleston Foundation’s annual fundraiser includes “Glorious Gardens” tours that each lead guests through eight to 10 private green spaces. Locations, times, & prices vary. historiccharleston.org
MARCH 17
LOWCOUNTRY SPRING PLANT SALE
Stock up on perennials, shrubs, trees, grasses, edibles, and more at the South Carolina Native Plant Society’s spring sale. Charles Towne Landing, 1500 Old Towne Rd. Saturday, 9 a.m.-noon. Free. scnps.org
