Kerala, also known as “God’s Own Country”, is famous for its beautiful backwater, greenery and vibrant culture but also popular for its spice gardens. Of the many spices grown here, cardamom has a special place. Kerala is the largest cardamom manufacturer in India, titled “Cardamom Capital of India”.

Cardamom, often referred to as “The Queen of spice”, is rated for its unique aroma, rich taste and medical properties. Kerala’s unique climate, soil conditions and traditional agricultural techniques are the best combination to grow high-quality cardamom.

In this article, we will examine why Kerala dominates India’s cardamom production, its favourable geographical conditions, the role of farmers and spices and the economic and cultural importance of this spice. 

Geographical benefits of Kerala for cardamom cultivation

The Western Ghats of Kerala provide the right environment for growing premium-quality cardamom.

1. Climate and weather

• Cardamom grows in cold, moisturized conditions with moderate rain.
• The high-end areas of Kerala (900-1,500 meters) in Idukki, Wayanad and Palakkad offer the best temperature range from 10°C to 35°C.
• The government receives rainfall from 1,500 to 4,000 mm per year, which creates a natural greenhouse effect for cardamom growth.

2. Soil quality

• Clay is rich in well-drained soil in the hilly areas of Kerala and supports healthy cardamom plants.
• The soil retains moisture when it allows the proper ventilation that is essential for root growth.

 3. Biodiversity and shade-grown cultivation

• Cardamom gardens in Kerala benefit from shade-growing agriculture, where trees like Silver Oak and Jackfruit protect them from direct sunlight.
• Kerala’s fertile biodiversity ensures natural insect control and promotes stable agriculture.

Idukki: The Heart of Cardamom Production

1. Why does Idukki dominate cardamom farming?

• More than 70% of the total cardamom production in India contributes to the district.

• There are large-scale plantations with traditional and scientific agricultural techniques.

• The hilly terrain of the Idukki and the high-end fog climate create the best conditions for planting aromatic and delicious cardamom.

2. Vandamedu – Cardamom Center

• Vandam, a small city in Idukki, is popular for its cardamom gardens and spices.

• This is one of India’s largest cardamom auction centres, where traders and exporters buy new products.

Traditional and modern agricultural techniques in Kerala

Cardamom farmers in Kerala use a combination of ageing agricultural methods and modern technologies to maintain high-quality yields.

1. Unique and Sustainable Agriculture

• Many farmers in Kerala are practising organic cardamom and avoiding chemical pesticides.

• Biofertilizers, fertilizers and natural insect repellents are used to maintain the fertility of the soil and protect the crops.

2. Accurate irrigation and water management

• Drip irrigation systems are widely used to protect water when ensuring the optimal humidity levels for cardamom plants.

• Proper irrigation helps prevent fungal infections and increases yield.

3. Selected harvest for high-quality yields

• Cardamom plants are 2-3 years of maturity and begin to produce pods.

• Farmers handpick fully mature, deep green pods to ensure the best flavour and aroma.

• The harvest is done 3-4 times a year, which is a great but highly worth crop.

Cardamom’s Economic Importance in Kerala

1.Contributing to the economy of Kerala: 

• Kerala contributes to more than 85% of India’s total cardamom exports.
• The spice industry employs thousands of farmers, workers and traders.
• The cardamom of Kerala is exported to the Middle East, Europe and the United States, And is used in food, perfumes and medicines.

2.Auctioneer auction centers

• Kerala has well-established auction markets, primarily in Vandam and Kumili.

• These auctions set up Indian cardamom global prices.

• The Indian Spice Board regulates and promotes cardamom’s fair trade from Kerala.

3. The role of small-scale farmers and cooperatives

• Kerala has over 60,000 small-scale farmers who cultivate cardamom.

• Government and Co-operative Societies provide financial assistance, technical support and direct market access to farmers.

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 Unique features of the cardamom of Kerala

The cardamom of Kerala is rated for its high quality, bold taste and deep green.

1. Aroma & taste:

• The cardamom of Kerala has a strong, sweet fragrant aroma with lemon and mint notes.

• The higher content of essential oils (2-8%) is more delicious than cardamom from other regions.

2. Size & color

• The best Kerala cardamom is a large, deep green bomb, making it very valuable in the international market.

3. Clinical properties

• Rich in antioxidants, digestive enzymes and anti-inflammatory compounds.

• Ayurveda, Unani medicine and modern herbal treatments are used for digestion, toxicity and respiratory health.

Cultural and cooking importance in Kerala

1. Share in the category of Kerala:

• Cardamom is the mainstay of Kerala’s traditional dishes, especially sweet, biriyani and tea.

• It is used to make Bizam (Sweet Pudding), Ela Ada (rice dumplings) and Kerala-style spice coffee.

2. Ayurveda & Traditional Medicine

• Ayurveda considers cardamom a “tridoshic” spice, saddening wata, bita and kaba toshas.

• Traditional Kerala medicine supports digestive health, detoxification, and respiratory wellness.

3. Cardamom in Festivals & Rituals:

• Cardamom is an essential offering in temples and religious ceremonies.

• It is used in making holy offerings (holy food) and herbal drinks.

Challenges facing in cardamom industry of Kerala

1. Climate Change and Irregular Weather Methods: Unpredictable rain and rising temperature affect cardamom yields. Farmers accept drought-resistant varieties and rainwater harvesting techniques.

2. Price fluctuations and market competition: The global price variations of Guatemala cardamom and competition affect Kerala’s exports.

The government supports export promotion and quality certificates to maintain the dominance of Kerala.

3. Pest and disease management: Cardamom plants suffer from fungal infections and root diseases. Biological pest control and organic fertilizers are promoted to reduce chemical dependence.

The Global demand for Kerala’s Cardamom

The demand for Indian cardamom, especially in Kerala, has risen in recent years. Even in the Middle East, Europe and the United States, this versatile spice is hungry.Although people use it for dessert, tea, curries, or even for its medical properties, cardamom has integrated into various culinary traditions.

Companies like Tastesy focus on fulfilling this growing demand without compromise. As one of India’s best cardamom exporters, this brand is proud to be 100% natural and chemicals and ensures consumers get pure spices.

Conclusion

Kerala’s legacy is unparalleled as the centre of cardamom, and its cardamom exporters play an important role in making this spice worldwide.

 Brands like Tastesy not only upheld the region’s reputation but also improved it by ensuring the quality and reliability of every pod they are exporting. Whether you are a food lecturer or a lover of Indian spices, the cardamom of Kerala is sure to raise your cooking experience.

Despite the challenges such as climate change and market fluctuations, Kerala’s scientific agricultural techniques, government support and standard agricultural practices ensure that cardamom is world-class from Kerala.

So, remember that the next time you enjoy a cup of spice or aromatic biryani, the best cardamom may have come from the lush green hills of Kerala.