Planting Help
Growing Heliconias & Gingers
Helpful planting notes for growing tropical heliconias and gingers at home. These plants love warm, humid conditions, rich soil, regular mulch and steady care through the growing season.
Growing Heliconias
Heliconias bring strong tropical colour and structure to the garden. They can range from smaller varieties through to very large plants, so choosing the right variety for the right position matters.
Position
Most heliconias grow well in full sun to part shade. Plants grown in full shade may grow taller. Choose a protected location away from strong winds.
Soil
Heliconias prefer humid, light, freely draining soil with high organic matter. A slightly acidic soil is ideal, around pH 5 to 6.5.
Mulch
Mulching is very important. Hay or cane mulch helps stop the soil drying out and improves soil activity over time.
Fertilising & Watering
Heliconias are heavy feeders. Feed during the growing season with a complete fertiliser every 6 to 8 weeks. Extra potash can help when plants are flowering.
Pests & Disease
Grasshoppers are one of the main pests. Disease is uncommon, but wet feet, especially in winter, can cause root rot and other issues.
Maintenance
Remove old flowers and tired stems to keep plants tidy, improve airflow and encourage fresh new growth.
Growing Gingers
Tropical gingers include beehive, alpina, costus and torch varieties. They are known for their unusual flowers, strong colours and lush tropical foliage.
Position
Many gingers can grow in full sun, but they often perform best in filtered light or around 30% to 40% shade. Give them enough room for the type of ginger you are planting.
Soil
Gingers prefer humid, light, freely draining soil with plenty of organic matter. A soil pH around 6 to 6.5 is ideal for many varieties.
Mulch
Use hay or cane mulch to protect the soil, retain moisture and build organic matter. Gingers respond well to rich, active soil.
Fertilising & Watering
Feed gingers through the growing season with a complete fertiliser. Extra potash can be useful when plants are flowering.
Pests & Disease
Grasshoppers and nematodes can be pests. Wet feet, especially in cooler weather, can cause root problems. Leaf spot may also appear in cooler months.
Maintenance
Remove old flowers and tired stems from alpina and torch gingers to keep the plant tidy and encourage new growth. Beehive gingers often self-clean as old stems die back.
Need help choosing plants?
Not sure which tropical plants will suit your garden? Contact Jodie for advice on availability, growing conditions and farm pickup.