Elettaria cardamomum: Cardamom
Cardamom
Growing cardamom can be rewarding, especially since it’s both a valuable spice and a medicinal herb. Here’s a comprehensive guide that combines gardening tips for cardamom with its health benefits.
Cardamom Gardening Tips:
Climate & Location
- Tropical to subtropical climate is ideal.
- Needs shade and high humidity.
- Thrives at temperatures between 10°C to 35°C (50°F–95°F).
- Requires well-drained, loamy soil rich in organic matter.
Planting
- Propagation: Usually done via rhizomes (root divisions).
- Spacing: Plant rhizomes 2–3 feet apart in rows about 5–6 feet apart.
- Best planted at the beginning of the monsoon season for rain-fed areas.
Watering
- Requires regular, consistent watering, especially during dry months.
- Avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
- Mulching helps retain moisture and control weeds.
Fertilizing
- Apply organic compost or well-rotted manure.
- Add nitrogen-rich fertilizers during the growing season.
- Apply vermicompost or bone meal for enhanced growth.
Pests & Diseases
- Watch for shoot borers, aphids, and leaf spot diseases.
- Use neem oil or natural insecticides for pest control.
Harvesting
- Plants take about 2-3 years to produce pods.
- Harvest when the pods are firm and green—usually from October to December.
- Dry pods in shade to preserve their flavor and essential oils.
