HYDR0P0N1C PRODUCTION OF FRESH GINGER ROOTS (ZINGIBER OFFICINALE) AS AN ALTERNATIVE METHOD FOR SOUTH FLORIDA

摘要

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rose.) is considered an important ingredient for most Asian cuisines. The imports of ginger to the United States rose from 13,449 t in 1997 to 20,0971 in the year 2000. China is considered the main supplier of fresh gingerto the United States. Hawaii is the only state in the U.S that is currently commercially producing fresh ginger. The wholesale prices for fresh ginger are better in the months of July to September. An experiment was conducted to compare the yield and quality of fresh ginger under a greenhouse hydroponic production system with that of a field-grown system. The hydroponic system produced more yield and better quality rhizomes. Preliminary observation showed that costs of production were lower under the hydroponic system due to reduced maintenance associated with disease, insect, and weed control.