You can find turmeric, fresh or powdered, in most health food stores and even mainstream groceries. However, it doesn't come cheap.

Luckily, turmeric is relatively easy to grow even for beginner gardeners. All you need are fresh turmeric rhizomes, a large pot and a sunny windowsill.

Read on for more detailed tips on how to grow this versatile spice.

Sprouting turmeric rhizomes for planting

Turmeric plants are fast-growing shrubs that can grow up to three feet tall or more. Turmeric is typically grown from existing rhizomes, which produce green shoots a few weeks after planting. This is the easiest way to sprout turmeric. Turmeric is also best sprouted indoors. This ensures that it gets off to a good start.

To sprout turmeric, cut the rhizome into sections, with two to three buds per section. Fill three-inch pots halfway with potting soil, then lay the sections flat on the soil. Cover with soil and water well.