Cardamom Plant Care: A Complete Guide

Cardamon plant (Elettaria cardamomum) is a famous edible plant in the Ginger family. This aromatic herbaceous perennial got its name from the Greek word kardamomom. This plant is native to the tropical regions of India, Nepal, and Southeast Asia. The cardamom plant is a very cherished herb that is used in a variety of dishes.

This plant is also one of the most expensive herbs but you can also grow it at home as cardamom plant care is simple. So let’s look at some of the many uses and benefits of the Cardamom plant and how you can grow and care for it.

What Is The Cardamom Plant?

The cardamom plant is a famous edible plant with many herbal benefits and a flavourful and aromatic taste. Hailing from the tropical regions of India, Nepal, Burma, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. This plant can reach a height of 5 to 15 feet in its native regions. The usage of the Cardamom plant can be dated back to 4,000 years.

Today Saudi Arabia and Kuwait are the largest importers of this plant. Guatemala holds the position of the largest commercial producer, closely followed by India and Sri Lanka. The Cardamom plant has thick rhizomes which produce upright shoots and bear long, dark-green leaves. Leaves are 24 inches long and have a sword-like appearance.

This plant also produces orchid-like, white flowers with purple veins or yellow margins in spring or summer.

See also Herbal Plants.

Cardamom Plant Care

Due to its nativeness to the tropical monsoon forests of India, the Cardamom plant thrives in similar conditions. So, to provide this plant with the requirements consider planting it in a rain garden, or a vegetable garden.

Water

Cardamom plant care involves regularly watering the plant, however, make sure you don’t overwater it. You also need to mist the plant regularly to keep it moist. This would also create rainforest-type conditions for the plant to thrive.

Similar read – How To Water Your Plants.

Temperature And Humidity

To get your Cardamom plant to produce fruits and flowers you need to grow them in a temperature ranging higher than 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature goes below that, the plant growth can suffer greatly.

In most indoor settings the occurrence of flowers and fruits is rare, however, the cardamom plant can create an attractive display indoors. Keep humidity levels to 75% when growing outdoors while inside keep moderate humidity by placing the plant on the dish of consistently moist pebbles.

Sunlight

Avoid planting these herbs under a bright and unfiltered light. For better cardamom plant care use a place where the plant can receive some shade or protection from bright light. In its native habitat, the plant is usually protected from direct light by tall trees.

Soil

The cardamom plant grows best in fertile soil. A loam-based potting compost can also be helpful for plant growth. Make sure that the soil is slightly acidic and sandy so it drains gradually.

Common Pests And Diseases

The cardamom plant is generally unaffected by many pests and diseases. However, cardamon plant care can be affected by thrips and viruses. Thrips can cause serious damage to the plant by sucking on the capsule’s sap which causes shriveled capsules with gaping slits – also known as “cardamom itch”. Using insecticides is not recommended as thrips usually leave after causing the damage. You can use row covers to protect your cardamom plant from thrip infestation.

Benefits And Uses Of The Cardamom Plant

There are many benefits and uses of the cardamom plant which makes it an expensive herb.

• Flavouring Agent: Cardamom is a main spice to add flavor to many sweet and savory dishes.
• Beverages: Cardamom is also famously used in many beverages such as tea, coffee, and mocktails.
• Antioxidants: This plant contains antioxidants that protect cells from damage.
• Digestive Aid: This plant is also known for its digestive properties which are used to alleviate, ingestion, bloating, and gas.
• Traditional Medicines: In Ayurveda and other traditional medicine, Cardamom, is used to treat many ailments such as urinary problems, respiratory issues, and infections.

FAQs

1. How often should I water my cardamom plant?

Ans: Water cardamom plants every 2-3 days, keeping the soil moist.

2. What is the ideal temperature range for cardamom cultivation?

Ans: Cardamom plants thrive in temperatures between 68-86°F (20-30°C).

3. How can I protect my cardamom plant from pests and diseases?

Ans: Regularly inspect the plant for pests and apply organic pesticides. Maintain proper air circulation and avoid over-watering to prevent diseases.

4. When can I harvest cardamom pods from my plant?

Ans: Cardamom pods are usually ready for harvest after 2-3 years of planting when they turn greenish-yellow. Harvest only mature pods. You can hand-pick each seed pod or fruit.

5. Can I grow cardamom indoors?

Ans: Yes, growing cardamom indoors is possible if you provide sufficient warmth, humidity, and bright indirect light. Use proper-sized pots and provide extra care in temperature regulation and watering.

Conclusion

The cardamom plant care is easy and this spice is famously used in many dishes due to its unique flavor. Moreover, you can easily grow these plants indoors by providing the right conditions. These plants can also create a vibrant display with their foliage and amp up your house with their fragrance.