How to Grow Cardamom Plant from Seed and Care for Green Cardamom

Growing cardamom, the “Queen of Spices,” can be a gratifying experience for gardeners who appreciate its aromatic and culinary qualities. If you’re keen on cultivating your own cardamom plants from seeds, here’s a detailed guide to help you succeed.

1. Getting Started with Cardamom Seeds

Select Fresh Seeds: Choose plump, mold-free seeds for the best germination rates.
Soak the Seeds: Immerse the seeds in water for 12 hours before planting to soften the seed coat and encourage germination.

2. Planting the Cardamom Seeds

Prepare the Soil: Use a mix of compost, sandy soil, and perlite or vermiculite for excellent drainage.
Planting Depth: Sow the seeds about 1 inch deep.
Spacing: Space seeds or seedlings at least 2 feet apart, as cardamom plants can grow large.
Watering: Water the seeds gently and thoroughly after planting.

3. Growing Conditions

Light: Opt for indirect sunlight or partial shade, mimicking the plant’s natural understory habitat.
Temperature: Maintain temperatures between 22°C to 32°C.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Fertilization: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every three weeks during the growing season.

4. Caring for Green Cardamom

Pruning: Trim weak or unhealthy shoots to encourage robust growth.
Pest Control: Watch for aphids and spider mites, and use neem oil as an organic solution.
Harvesting: Harvest the pods when they turn pale green or yellowish-green, before they split open.

5. Final Tips

Repotting: If grown in pots, repot the plant when it outgrows its container.
Mulching: Apply organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Patience is Key: Be prepared for a slow growth process. It may take several years to see flowering and pod production.

Growing cardamom is a slow but rewarding process. With the right care and patience, you’ll be able to harvest your own fresh, aromatic cardamom pods, adding a vibrant taste and aroma to your culinary creations.

Share this guide with friends who are enthusiastic about gardening and spices, and embark on the journey of growing cardamom together!