How Much Sunlight Does Cardamom Plant Need?

Cardamom is a spice that is widely used in Indian cuisine, especially in sweet dishes. It is a perennial plant that belongs to the ginger family and grows well in tropical climates. If you are planning to grow cardamom in your garden, one of the crucial things you need to consider is the amount of sunlight it requires. In this article, we will discuss how much sunlight cardamom plants need and other essential factors to help you grow healthy and flavorful cardamom.

Factors Affecting Cardamom Growth

Before discussing sunlight requirements, it’s essential to understand other factors that affect the growth of cardamom. Here are some of them:

Temperature

Cardamom plants thrive in warm temperatures ranging between 18°C to 35°C. Temperatures below 10°C can cause damage to the plant, while temperatures above 40°C can result in reduced growth and yield.

Soil

Cardamom requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be between 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should also be moist but not waterlogged.

Water

Cardamom requires regular watering throughout the year. The plant needs at least 1500mm of rainfall per year. In areas with low rainfall, irrigation is necessary to maintain soil moisture.

Sunlight

Sunlight is a crucial factor that affects the growth and yield of cardamom plants. Let’s discuss in detail how much sunlight cardamom plant needs.

Sunlight Requirements for Cardamom Plant

Cardamom plants require partial shade or filtered sunlight for optimal growth. They cannot tolerate direct sunlight as it can cause damage to their leaves and reduce their yield. In ideal conditions, cardamom plants need about 50% to 70% shade.

The best way to provide shade to cardamom plants is by planting them under tall trees or using shade cloth. If you are planting cardamom in your garden, make sure to choose a spot that receives partial shade throughout the day.

Can Cardamom Plants Grow Indoors?

Yes, cardamom plants can grow indoors, provided they receive the right amount of sunlight and other growing conditions. Indoor cardamom plants require bright but filtered sunlight and temperature between 18°C to 25°C. You can grow cardamom in pots or containers with well-draining soil and regular watering.

How to Maintain Cardamom Plants

Here are some tips to maintain healthy and flavorful cardamom plants:

• Water the plant regularly and maintain soil moisture.
• Fertilize the plant with organic matter like compost or manure.
• Prune the plant regularly to promote new growth.
• Protect the plant from pests and diseases by using organic pesticides.

FAQ

Can I grow cardamom in cold climates?

No, cardamom requires warm temperatures to grow. It is best suited for tropical and subtropical climates.

How long does it take for cardamom plants to mature?

Cardamom plants take about two to three years to mature and start producing fruits.

Can I harvest cardamom throughout the year?

Yes, you can harvest cardamom throughout the year, but the peak season is from August to November.

Can I use artificial shade for my cardamom plants?

Yes, you can use shade cloth or any other artificial shade material to protect your cardamom plants from direct sunlight.

In conclusion, providing the right amount of sunlight is crucial for growing healthy and flavorful cardamom plants. Make sure to choose a spot that receives partial shade throughout the day and maintain other growing conditions like soil moisture, fertilization, and pruning. With proper care, you can enjoy the delicious aroma and flavor of homegrown cardamom in your favorite dishes.