Bentong ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is a premium ginger variety highly sought after in both domestic and international markets due to its superior aroma, taste, and medicinal properties. Traditionally cultivated in highland or mineral soil regions, its production faces challenges due to limited suitable land and soil-borne diseases. This research by Peter Laga and colleagues from MARDI explores an innovative approach for cultivating Bentong ginger on deep peat soil—an area previously underutilized due to its acidic nature, poor nutrient availability, and problematic drainage.

The study introduces the use of circular raised beds (batas bulat) instead of conventional long beds. This method is particularly effective for peat soils filled with decomposed organic matter and wood debris, which complicates standard farming practices. Each circular bed is constructed at 0.5 m² diameter and 0.3 m height, with 1-meter spacing between beds for ease of maintenance and weed control. [continue reading…]