Large Cardamom Cultivation: Know how large cardamom cultivation is becoming a new source of income for farmers

Large Cardamom Cultivation: In farming, now farmers have started paying attention to such crops along with traditional crops, which give more profit at low cost. Large cardamom cultivation is becoming increasingly popular in this category. It is a medicinal and cash crop, the demand for which remains from the domestic market to the international level. Its cultivation is considered very successful especially in hilly and humid climate.

Farmers of Uttarakhand, Sikkim and north-eastern states are already earning good income from this crop. Now farmers in the hilly areas of other states are also getting attracted towards it. Large cardamom cultivation is emerging as a better option for small and medium farmers due to less maintenance, long life and better market value.

What is Large cardamom?

Large cardamom is an aromatic and medicinal plant, whose pods are used as a spice. It is used to enhance the taste of food as well as in medicines and oils. Medicinal properties are found in its seeds, which are effective in digestion, cough, cold, and respiratory problems.

Suitable climate and soil for large cardamom cultivation

Cool and moist climate is considered suitable for large cardamom cultivation. Generally, this cultivation is successful in areas with an altitude of 2000 to 2500 meters. This crop grows well in shady and humid environment. Talking about the soil, loamy or sandy loamy soil with good drainage is considered best for this.

Preparation of field

The field is first plowed deeply.

For large cardamom cultivation, beds are prepared according to 40×40 centimeters.

About 10,000 plants can be planted in one hectare of land.

It is necessary to keep a distance of 1 meter between the plants.

Planting and care of plants

The right time for planting is considered to be June to July.

Shady trees such as Alnus or Oak are planted to protect the plants from excessive sunlight.

The first irrigation should be done immediately after planting. After this, light irrigation is necessary every three to four weeks.

Weeding should be done from time to time for weed control.

Pest and Disease Management

In large cardamom cultivation, special care has to be taken of fungus and pests. For this:

Organic fungicides should be used from time to time.

Fungus and dry stems should be removed from the field.

The use of neem-based organic pesticides is beneficial to protect against pests.

Harvesting and processing

Fruits of large cardamom start coming in the third year and once the fruits come, production continues for 7 years.

After harvesting, the fruits should be cleaned and dried in the shade.

For better quality, the fruits are dried in a ‘pipe dryer furnace’ at a temperature of 45 to 50 degrees.

After drying, the grains are separated and packed well.

Production and revenue

About 250 grams of cardamom is produced from one plant.

600 to 800 kg of production can be taken from one hectare of land in the first year.

The production increases gradually and it reaches its peak in the fourth-fifth year.

Income from large cardamom cultivation

Farmers can earn good income from large cardamom cultivation. Currently, its price in the market is Rs 600 to 800 per kg. According to an estimate, a net income of ₹1,20,000 to ₹1,60,000 can be earned from one hectare of land. If processing and branding facilities are available, this income can increase further.

Benefits of large cardamom cultivation

High profit at low cost

Long term production

High demand as medicinal and spice

Suitable for organic farming

Government Support and Contacts

To promote the cultivation of large cardamom, the Agriculture Department provides training, availability of saplings and technical help to farmers. If you also want to adopt this crop, you can contact your nearest Krishi Vigyan Kendra or institutions related to Ayurvedic medicinal crops.

Conclusion

Large cardamom cultivation can become an excellent option for farmers in today’s time. If it is cultivated scientifically and with proper care, it can become a strong source of income for a long time.