How to Grow Cardamom Indoors in Pots

Cardamom, the queen of spices, is a tropical plant that thrives in warm, humid conditions. But did you know you can grow cardamom indoors in pots? 🌞✨ Whether you want to enjoy its fragrant leaves or eventually harvest your own cardamom pods, growing it at home is rewarding and possible!

Let’s dive into how to successfully grow cardamom indoors in pots 👇

🏺 1. Choosing the Right Pot & Soil

✅ Pot Size: Use a large, deep pot (at least 12-16 inches in diameter) with good drainage holes. Cardamom has a spreading root system, so give it space!
✅ Soil Type: Cardamom thrives in rich, well-draining soil. Use a mix of:

🌱 Loamy potting soil
🐛 Organic compost (for nutrients)
🏖️ Sand or perlite (for drainage)

🌞 2. Light & Temperature Requirements

✅ Indirect Sunlight: Cardamom prefers bright, filtered light, like under a tree in the wild. Avoid direct harsh sun as it can scorch the leaves. 🌤️
✅ Temperature: Keep temperatures between 18-30°C (65-85°F). It’s a tropical plant, so avoid cold drafts. ❄️🚫
✅ Humidity: Cardamom loves moisture! Maintain 50-70% humidity by:

Misting the leaves regularly 💦
Keeping a humidifier nearby 🌫️
Placing a tray of water & pebbles under the pot 🪴

🌱 3. Planting Cardamom Indoors

You can start with seeds or young plants:

🔹 Growing from Seeds:

Soak seeds overnight in warm water to improve germination. 🌊
Sow seeds ½ inch deep in moist soil. 🌱
Keep the pot in a warm, humid spot (above 20°C/68°F).
Germination takes 30-40 days, so be patient! ⏳

🔹 Growing from Rhizomes:

If you have cardamom rhizomes (roots), plant them 1 inch deep in soil.
Water well and keep warm – new shoots should appear in a few weeks! 🌿

💧 4. Watering & Fertilizing

💦 Watering:
✅ Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Water 2-3 times a week, depending on the season.
🚫 Avoid overwatering, as cardamom roots can rot easily!

🌿 Fertilizing:
✅ Feed with organic compost or liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring & summer).
✅ Use a balanced NPK fertilizer (10-10-10) or a diluted fish emulsion/seaweed extract.