Plant a Pot of Ginger

<a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A16398-2003Nov26.html">Plant a Pot of Ginger (washingtonpost.com)</a>: Ginger should live in gravel for several months (and even longer in dirt). When it starts to wither, just buy a new piece and begin anew. 

1. Gather your supplies. Ginger can be found in most grocery stores for less than $2. The ideal piece will have smooth skin and several eyes, like those on a potato. Shape is also important: Buy a piece three to six inches high, with a nub on the bottom to help it stand upright in the pot. You’ll also need a small clear vase or bowl and two shades of gravel. (Pet shops usually have an array of the colored stones.)
2. Pick your base color of gravel and fill the bowl a third of the way, shaking the container slightly to get an even layer. Pour your second color of gravel on top, leaving enough space for the final layer.
3. Place the ginger in the bowl, steadying it with one hand as you pour your final layer of gravel around it with the other hand. Fill the bowl to the top, making sure that the ginger can stand on its own. Water sparingly once a week, and new growth should soon appear. When the culinary urge hits, hold the plant firm, cut off a piece of ginger with a sharp knife, and prepare for its pleasantly pungent flavor.