How to revive curcuma?

MrsGarden

I have several curcuma(s) which I split and repotted a few weeks ago. They look very sorry for themselves (as they did before repotting). I've kept them damp, in a sunny spot. Should they have a tomato feed maybe? The one on the right isn't actually as healthy as it looks in the picture.

granma

I have a plant of the same species when I split them up i put them in the shade to recuperate for a few days whether they are sun lovin or not.
Some I stand under the benching in the greenhouse.having nets up this gives shade most of the day on the one side. 

MrsGarden

Thanks I'll try that.

BobTheGardener

I've never grown these but would suggest removing the flowers so the rhizomes can build up again.  At the moment the leaves will be putting all of their energy into trying to make seeds, when you really want them to grow roots and swell the rhizomes.  If unsure (as I am), perhaps just remove the flowers from half and see if it helps?

MrsGarden

Ok bob, I'll experiment with half, had thought it was ok as the flowers had died off but there is new growth. All in the shade for a while too ( if I can find some!).

Lyn

I’ve never grown them either, but if you’ve just put them into new compost there is no need to feed them. 

MrsGarden

Good point Lyn.

Sverige

I wonder if I could tag my question onto this thread?  I’ve just been given a curcuma potted up as shown in the pic. I have no idea what to do with this - should I keep it indoors as a houseplant, or plant it out in the garden?  From what I’ve read they like warmth and sunlight, but outdoors they will get more sun but less warmth (overnight at least) and indoors they will have consistent 22-25C, but not so much light.  What would you do with this plant?

Edit: sorry, no pic because I can’t figure out how to attach it!!  But close your eyes and imagine what a curcuma in a pot looks like... that’s pretty much it!

MrsGarden

Mine didn't survive the winter (unheated greenhouse with lots of wrapping)but were great in the summer.