Cardamom Growing Guide
Tropical perennial of the ginger family, known as the 'Queen of Spices.' Produces highly aromatic seed capsules used in cuisine, confections, and traditional medicine.
Growing Conditions
Soil Requirements
Soil Type & pH
Best soil types: forest loam, laterite, clay loam
pH range: 5 - 6.5 (optimal: 5.5)
Drainage: good
Nutrient Needs (N-P-K)
Planting Guide
Yield & Economics
Common Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
- thrips
- stem borers
- root grubs
Common Diseases
- capsule rot
- rhizome rot
- katte mosaic virus
Use to identify issues early and prevent crop losses.
Growing Tips
Cardamom requires 40-60% shade canopy; interplant with native shade trees to mimic its natural forest understorey habitat.
Harvest capsules when they are three-quarters mature (green and firm) and dry at 45-50C to retain green color and aroma.
Maintain clean ground cover around plants and remove dead panicles to reduce capsule rot and improve pollination access.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Cardamom take to grow?
Cardamom typically takes 1095 days from planting to harvest. Seeds germinate in about 30 days. The best planting season is monsoon.
What soil does Cardamom need?
Cardamom grows best in forest loam, laterite, clay loam soil with a pH of 5-6.5. Good drainage is required.
What temperature does Cardamom need?
Cardamom grows best at 18-28°C. Frost tolerance: none. Heat tolerance: low.
What is the expected yield for Cardamom?
Cardamom yields approximately 150 kg dried capsules/hectare under good conditions.
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