Growing taro at home can enrich a kitchen garden with a unique, versatile plant. Taro, also known as Dasheen, is a popular addition to many cuisines due to its mildly sweet and starchy tuber, which can be cooked like potatoes, or made into flour. Additionally, the leaves, once properly cooked, make a great addition to soups and stews. Taro, with its vibrant green, heart-shaped leaves, is both a functional crop and a beautiful plant for any home garden.
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In India, growing taro at home is quite manageable, especially in the warmer regions. With more people adopting kitchen gardening, it’s a practical crop for short-space urban and suburban areas. Kitchen gardening not only supports self-sustenance but also provides fresh produce without the need for vast farming areas. Here’s a complete guide on how to grow taro at home.
How To Grow Taro
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Choosing the Right Location
Taro thrives best in warm conditions with partial shade, protected from intense afternoon sunlight. For hotter climates, a location with partial shade is ideal. In cooler, temperate regions, varieties that can grow quickly before frost are preferable. Gardeners can plant taro in well-drained soil but should ensure it remains consistently moist throughout the season.
Preparing The Soil
Taro requires soil rich in organic matter. Prepare the soil by mixing in plenty of compost before planting, as this helps improve nutrient content and moisture retention. Taro plants can tolerate short periods of waterlogged conditions, but well-drained soil promotes better growth and a healthier crop. Aim for a slightly acidic soil pH, between 5.5 and 6.5, for optimal results.
Planting Taro
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Taro can be grown from tuber sections, small tubers, or potted plants. For garden planting, dig furrows about 15 cm deep and space the plants 80-100 cm apart. If planting root pieces without leaves, plant them 5 cm deep. Water thoroughly after planting, and keep the area moist to encourage quick growth. Use pots at least 50-60 cm deep and wide for container planting, with added drainage holes if possible.
Watering And Mulching
Taro needs consistent watering, especially during warm months. Ensure the soil remains moist but not soggy, as drying out can reduce tuber growth. Mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, control soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Regular watering and mulching are essential for healthy taro plants.
Fertilising Taro
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Taro benefits from a high-potassium fertiliser to support tuber growth. Six to eight weeks after planting, lightly fertilise lightly with organic fertiliser or compost tea. For container-grown taro, sprinkle fertiliser on the surface of the potting mix and water it in. This feeding schedule will ensure the plant receives the nutrients necessary for robust growth.
Managing Pests And Diseases
Taro is relatively pest and disease-resistant, which makes it a low-maintenance choice for kitchen gardens. However, keeping the planting bed weed-free and the soil consistently moist will minimise stress on the plant and further reduce the chance of pest infestation. Taro planted in greenhouses may benefit from occasional misting to maintain humidity.
Harvesting Taro
Depending on the variety, Taro plants are ready for harvest seven to twelve months after planting. When leaves begin to yellow and die back, carefully dig up the tubers with a garden fork. Store tubers in a cool, dry place and cook them within a month. Ensure tubers are thoroughly cooked before eating to prevent digestive discomfort. Taro leaves can be harvested once the first leaf opens.
Storing Taro Tubers
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Taro tubers can be stored in the ground if the soil does not freeze, but it’s best to lift and store them once they mature. Clean and dry tubers thoroughly before storing them in a cool, dry spot. Larger tubers should be used first, as they don’t store as well as smaller ones. For long-term use, consider freezing cooked taro or drying it for flour.
Growing taro at home can add diversity to any kitchen garden. With its low maintenance needs, it’s ideal for both urban gardeners and those with spacious gardens. Taro plants bring both aesthetic value and nutritious yields, with tubers and leaves providing versatility in the kitchen. By following these easy steps, any gardener can enjoy fresh taro right from their backyard.