The only problem with trying to grow ginger from bits of rhizome bought in the store is that they are likely to be pretty dried up by the time you get them. Other than that there is no problem, except that they like very warm temperatures nearly all the year round, especially the edible variety. Other good plants to try are sweet potato, yams and passion fruit (plant a whole half fruit with seeds)

How can you tell if it is dried out or not?

I definitely want to try sweet potato. I keep forgetting about that one.

I started one years ago, with no trouble. In your climate you will need a greenhouse or someway to duplicate the climate AND light. Other than the satisfaction of being able to do it, the plant is not very interesting. Al