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Exploring Market Potential of Baby Ginger as a Niche Crop in Temperate Climates

Applied Research

William Errickson
Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent
Rutgers Cooperative Extension
Freehold

Abstract

Baby ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a unique product has potential as an excellent niche crop with a retail market value of $16 per pound. While ginger is typically grown in tropical climates, baby ginger can be produced in temperate regions using season extension methods. This project explored market potential for baby ginger production in Central New Jersey. In 2021, field trials of baby ginger (var. Peruvian Yellow) were conducted at the Rutgers University Specialty Crop Research and Extension Center using moveable caterpillar tunnels. Ginger yields were measured from eight replicated rows harvested over a four-week period starting in mid-October. After the ginger was harvested, samples of the crop were donated to 18 different local businesses (including food and drink establishments) with a survey to complete, indicating their satisfaction with the crop and how likely they might be to purchase it from local growers in the future. The majority of survey respondents had not used baby ginger before, and survey responses indicated that 100% of respondents were very satisfied with the crop overall and 91% were likely to purchase baby ginger from local farmers in the future (n=11). High yields combined with a high satisfaction from local businesses and their likelihood to purchase baby ginger from growers indicate strong market potential for baby ginger as a niche crop in temperate climates.

Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

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Authors: William Errickson
  1. Errickson, W. Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, Rutgers University, New Jersey, 07728