How Do You Grow Taro Root?
Updated on
September 20, 2023
Growing Taro Root
Taro is a plant that forms underground roots and grows upwards. You can grow taro by digging up the root and planting it in the soil. The process of growing taro is called taro Growing or also known as Taro Culture. Digging out the taro root from the ground requires a lot of patience and perseverance. If you have an acre of land, growing your tares will be cheaper than buying them from a nursery. You can also create some edible greens for your family with the surplus-grown tare plants. Growing taro is not difficult if you know the right techniques. However, there are many factors to take into consideration before starting this project in your garden. Let’s explore how to grow taro:
How Do You Grow Taro Root?
1. Choosing the Right Location
• Taro plants thrive in tropical and subtropical climates.
• Select a location with full or partial sun exposure.
• Make sure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter.
2. Preparing the Soil
• Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility.
• Remove any weeds or grass from the planting area.
• The pH level of the soil should be slightly acidic, around 5.5 to 6.5.
3. Planting Taro Roots
• Obtain healthy taro root corms from a reliable source.
• Dig holes that are 4-6 inches deep and 12-18 inches apart.
• Place the corms in the holes with the bud side facing up.
• Gently cover the corms with soil, leaving a small depression to collect water.
4. Watering and Mulching
• Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging.
• Regularly water taro plants, especially during dry spells.
• Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
5. Fertilizing
• Use a balanced organic fertilizer to provide nutrients to the taro plants.
• Apply a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season.
• Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as excessive nitrogen can lead to leafy growth instead of tuber development.
6. Controlling Pests and Diseases
• Monitor for pests like aphids, slugs, and leafhoppers.
• Use organic insecticides or homemade remedies to control pest infestations.
• Rotate crops and maintain good plant hygiene to prevent disease outbreaks.
7. Harvesting and Storage
• Taro roots are typically ready to harvest 6-12 months after planting, depending on the variety.
• Gently dig around the plant and lift the corms using a garden fork or shovel.
• Wash off the excess soil and store the harvested taro roots in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place.
With proper care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of nutritious taro root in your own garden!
What Is Taro?
Taro is a root vegetable that is grown in many tropical countries. Taro is a type of ‘8th’ in the family of ‘dioscou’. The common name for taro is Colocasia. Taro is an aquatic plant. It is an annual plant. Taro grows in warm and wet areas of the world. It is a perennial plant which means it lives for many years. This plant includes underground roots and grows up. Taro is a root crop.
How To Grow Taro From Root
Taro can be grown from the root at home. You can make a small hole in the soil and plant the root into the hole. The root will grow downwards and will form new roots at the bottom of the hole. A taro plant is not like other plants that grow up. The plant roots lie below the soil.
How Much Does It Cost To Grow Taro?
It all depends on how much taro you buy. In general, one taro plant can produce around 2 kg of taro roots in a year. This amount is enough to make 2-3 meals. You may also use the leaves as greens or a wrap in this case.
Benefits Of Taro Planting
You can store the greens for longer periods - up to 10 months. You can use the leaves as a wrap or a salad and the roots for making soup.
Taro plants are easy to grow and there are many varieties to choose from. Taro contains a high amount of iron and fiber. It is also alow-calorie food and a good source of protein. It is low in fat and carbohydrate and is rich in potassium, and vitamins b-6 and b-1.
Growing Taro From Seed
It is not a good idea to take a seed from the taro plant and plant it directly in the garden. This is because the seed when it falls on the ground will be eaten by some animals and not germinate at all. The seed has to be soaked in water, then soaked in soil, then germinate and grow into a plant. Soaking the seed in water will remove the seed coat and make sure the seed is not eaten by any insect. You can sow the seed in the garden. When the seeds sprout you can remove them from the soil and plant them in a pot. The next season you can transplant it into the ground. Taro can be eaten when it is green or when it is ripe.
How To Propagate Taro Plant From Stem Cuttings
When you have some leftover taro roots from the last harvest, you can take the roots, remove the outer layer of the root, and plant it in the soil. After a couple of months, the plant will produce roots from the cuttings. You can also use this technique to grow other edible crops in your garden. You need to make a small cut in the stem of the taro plant. The cut should be at the base of the leaf so that the cutting remains attached to the plant. Keep the cut in water and leave it in the shade. After a week or two, the stem should be strong enough to support the leaf. You can now take the stem out of the water, and plant it in the soil. The cuttings will grow and give you new roots again.
Fruits Of Growing Taro
Taro is a great plant for the home gardener. It can be grown easily in pots, and the plant will produce edible greens that can be used for salads, wraps, and soups. The fruit is sweet and tasty. The greens can be eaten raw or can be fried. The root can be used as a vegetable and the stem can be used for making dumplings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Growing Taro Root
Q: How Long Does It Take For Taro Root To Mature?
Taro root generally takes 10-12 months to reach full maturity and be ready for harvest.
Q: How Much Sun Does Taro Root Need?
Taro root needs 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Q: What Is The Most Suitable Soil Type For Taro Root?
Taro root is best grown in a soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5 that is well-draining and high in organic matter.
Q: What Pests Are Associated With Taro Root?
Taro root can be susceptible to a wide range of pests, including snails and slugs, aphids, mealybugs, and the taro caterpillar.
Taro is a plant that grows in warm and wet areas of the world. You can grow taro from roots or seeds. Taro is an excellent source of fiber, iron, potassium, and Vitamin B-6. Taro is a low-calorie food and is a good source of protein. You can make a soup with taro roots or use the stem of the taro plant to make dumplings.
