How to Harvest and Dry Homegrown Cardamom

Growing cardamom at home is a rewarding experience, but knowing when and how to harvest and dry it properly is key to preserving its rich aroma and flavor. Let’s break it down step by step! 👇

📅 When to Harvest Cardamom?

✅ Harvest time: 3-4 years after planting (for seed-grown plants)
✅ Signs of readiness:
✔️ Pods turn light green but are not fully dry on the plant
✔️ The pods feel plump and firm when gently squeezed
✔️ Harvesting happens in stages (not all pods ripen at once)

📌 Best Season for Harvesting: Late summer to early winter (depending on climate)

✂️ How to Harvest Cardamom?

🔹 Step 1: Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the pods gently
🔹 Step 2: Harvest only mature, plump pods (leave smaller ones to ripen)
🔹 Step 3: Avoid pulling the pods—this can damage the plant
🔹 Step 4: Collect pods in a basket to keep them fresh

💡 Tip: Harvest every few weeks during the flowering season to get the best yield!

☀️ How to Dry Cardamom for Maximum Flavor?

🌞 1. Sun Drying Method (Traditional Way)

✅ Spread pods evenly on a clean mat or drying rack
✅ Place in partial sunlight for 7-10 days (not direct harsh sun)
✅ Turn the pods every 2 days for even drying
✅ Store when they feel completely dry & crisp

🔥 2. Oven Drying (Faster Method)

✅ Set oven to 110°F (43°C)—low temperature prevents flavor loss
✅ Spread pods on a baking tray in a single layer
✅ Dry for 2-3 hours, checking frequently
✅ Let them cool before storing

💨 3. Dehydrator Method (Best for Indoors)

✅ Set the dehydrator to 110-120°F
✅ Dry for 10-12 hours, depending on humidity
✅ Pods should feel light, dry, and crack easily

🏺 How to Store Dried Cardamom Pods?

✔️ Store in airtight glass jars to retain freshness
✔️ Keep in a cool, dark place (avoid direct sunlight)
✔️ For long-term storage, keep in vacuum-sealed bags
✔️ Ground cardamom loses aroma quickly—grind only when needed