Cardamom, popularly known as ‘Elaichi’ in India, is a special type of spice with an appealing aroma and taste. It is commonly used in cooking and has many health benefits. India is among the largest producers of cardamom, which is mainly produced in Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. However, farmers in Rajasthan have also been investing in cardamom cultivation because of its high economic returns. 

Let’s learn more about the cardamom farming methods in India. Moreover, we will learn different farming tips and techniques for better yield.

Cultivation Process for Good Yield

For optimal yield of Cardamom, there are some tips and methods to consider. Let’s learn more about it in detail : 

Choosing the Right Variety

The choice of a particular cardamom variety is very important in cardamom farming. Two main types of cardamom are cultivated in India: small cardamom, also known as Indian cardamom, and large cardamom, also known as Nepal cardamom. 

Small cardamom is produced more in the southern part of India, whereas big cardamom is produced in northeastern India. When selecting a variety, one has to take into consideration the characteristics of the soil, climate conditions, and the market the product will be sold. Small cardamom is consumed more and has a wider market than large cardamom because of its higher price.

Climate and Soil Requirements

Cardamom requires warm and humid weather, with an annual rainfall of 1500-3000 mm. Cardamom is cultivated at an altitude ranging from 600- 1500 meters MSL. The farming of cardamom can be best done at an altitude of 1000-2000m above sea level with an average temperature range of 10°C-35°C. 

Cardamom grows best in rich, friable and well-drained loamy soil with a Ph of 5. 5 to 6. 5. Tillage such as ploughing and supplementation of the soil with organic matter is crucial in the growth of crops in soil.

Tractors with implements like shaktiman rotavator can prepare the soil more efficiently. There are many popular rotavator models in India are Shaktiman Semi Champion Series, Shaktiman Regular Light, Shaktiman Regular Smart and many more

Plantation and Spacing

Cardamom is normally grown on slopes under the initial canopy formed by forest trees. It reproduces either with seeds or suckers. The seedlings are grown in nurseries for 10-12 months and are then taken to the field. The space to be left between the plants should be about 2- 3 meters to allow the plant to grow. Planting should be done in the early stages of monsoon season so as to have better plant growth.

Irrigation and Water Management

It is preferable to water cardamom frequently, especially during the dry season. However, that is not recommended because water logging in the substrate may cause root rot in the plant. Drip irrigation is one of the most recommended methods of irrigation because it conserves water. It helps preserve moisture in the soil without the risk of flooding the roots of plants.

Fertilization

Basically, the kind, quality, and quantity of fertiliser used are factors that determine a high yield. Organic manure, such as compost or farmyard manure, should be used before planting. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are inorganic fertilizers, should be put in split doses during the growing period of the crops. Additionally, utilizing modern agricultural machinery, such as a seed drill machine, can further enhance cardaamom yield. 

Pest and Disease Management

Cardamom is vulnerable to a number of pests and diseases that can cause a major decline in the yield.

Common Pests: Borers, thrips, and nematodes are chief among them, but new pests are emerging fast with changes in farming systems. Practical control of these pests involves frequent checks of the sprouts and subsequent spraying with organic or chemical insecticides as soon as symptoms appear.

Diseases: Some of the diseases include cardamom mosaic virus and leaf blight, which are members of the fungus group. Prevention of these diseases includes planting disease-resistant varieties and proper drainage to avoid water accumulation.

Harvesting and Post-Harvest Management

Cardamom plants take 2 to 3 years to begin producing fruits. The harvesting season is from the first time towards the middle of February. Farmers should wait until the plants have fully developed the pods before they even turn brown. Flavour and other quality aspects get reduced when the pods become overripe. 

Drying: Either pull or cut the pods or cut them from the plant, then rinse them and arrange them on a broad surface to dry under the sun. 

Grading: Separate the dried pods by size and colour. Such grading helps improve market prices.

Storage: After grading the pods based on size, colour, and quality, they should be stored in a cool and dry place.

Conclusion 

Farming of cardamom, therefore, can be economically beneficial when practiced correctly. The climate, soil, irrigation, and pest management practices are required to ensure that the farmer gets the desired yield. India ranks among the biggest producers of cardamom, which means that there will always be demand for this spice locally and internationally.