The cardamom is the queen of spices, even so, because of its aromatic pods and green appearance. Although it is a natural native to the cool rainforests of South India, it is also possible to grow it in the UAE under the proper system.
This blog illustrates how to grow a cardamom plant in Dubai, from soil preparation to harvest, along with trusted local sources like Cplants. where you can buy cheap plant in UAE.
Where is Cardamom Originally From?
Green cardamom plant (Elettaria cardamomum) belongs to the ginger family and is native to the Western Ghats of India and Sri Lanka. In these regions, the plant blossoms under tall trees, with 70–90% humidity, mild temperatures, and constant rainfall.
Dubai’s climate is very different hot, dry, and sandy. To succeed, you must recreate rainforest-like conditions through shade, moisture, and soil improvement.
Understanding the Cardamom Tree
The cardamom tree is a perennial herb with tall, leafy stems growing up to 2–3 meters; a rhizomatous root system that spreads underground.
Small, pale-green flowers grow at the base; pods develop after pollination and contain the aromatic seeds. Although often called the cardamom tree, it is technically a clumping herbaceous plant.
Conditions for Green Cardamom Plant Growth
Choosing the Right Plant
If you’re in Dubai, the easiest way is to buy a green cardamom plant instead of starting from seed. Seeds lose viability quickly and need rainforest-like humidity to sprout. Visit Cplant.ae to order a healthy cardamom plant for sale in the UAE. Choose plants with:
- Dark green leaves (no yellowing)
- Healthy rhizomes
- Multiple leafy shoots
Preparing the Soil Mix
Cardamom grows best in fertile, loam-based potting compost. Because cardamom requires tropical conditions to produce the optimal amount of fruit, it can thrive quite well under glass.
In the garden, it prefers acidic conditions. Desert sand won’t work for cardamom. Prepare a nutrient-rich, moisture-retentive soil mix:
- 40% coco peat
- 30% organic compost
- 20% garden loam soil
- 10% perlite or vermiculite for aeration
Add a layer of organic mulch (leaf litter, straw, or coconut husk) to retain water and keep soil cool.
Planting
Cardamom prefers part to full shade. Avoid planting in direct sunlight. View planting under tall trees in tropical conditions akin to its native rainforests; Green cardamom growing is best in Dubai. Choose a pot at least 18–24 inches deep with drainage holes.
Place the plant in a shaded location north-facing balconies, shaded courtyards, or under a pergola. Keep it away from harsh desert winds.
Watering Schedule
Cardamom roots must stay moist but not waterlogged.
- Summer (May–Sept): Water daily in the evening, mist foliage in the morning.
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Water every 2–3 days.
- Tip: Always check soil moisture with your finger it should feel damp, not soggy.
Fertilizing
Cardamom is a heavy feeder. Use:
- Organic compost or cow manure every 2 months
- A balanced NPK fertilizer (10:10:10) during active growth.
- Switch to phosphorus-rich feed when flowers appear.
Providing Shade & Humidity
Since Dubai lacks natural rainforest cover, you must simulate it: Install a 50–70% shade cloth over your cardamom plants.
Use misting systems or humidifiers if grown indoors. Group plants together — this raises local humidity.
If you live in a semi-tropical or temperate climate, you can grow cardamom in a heated greenhouse or a hot, steamy bathroom. Houseplants rarely grow flowers or fruit indoors, but cardamom does.
A dish of pebbles that stays consistently wet is ideal for the plant. The houseplant will grow much smaller than outdoors, to a humble 2 to 4 feet tall.
Flowering and Harvesting
Cardamom plants begin flowering after 2–3 years of good care. Flowers appear at the base, followed by green pods.
Harvest pods when they are plump and green (before splitting). Dry pods in shade — direct sun reduces flavor.
Pollination
Bees and other flying insects often pollinate cardamom plants. In areas where bees are scarce, hand pollination is essential.
Yet, timing is important since flowers only stay open for about one day. Using a small tool or brush, farmers transfer pollen grains from the male anther to the female stigma.
The successful fertilization can be observed by the flower wilting and the ovary swelling.
Lifespan
A mature cardamom plant (outdoors, under ideal conditions) continues producing for 10-15 years if well-maintained. Economic yield generally starts from the third year of planting.
Green Cardamom Plant for Sale
If you plan to buy a green cardamom plant rather than grow from seed:
- Choose plants with healthy rhizomes and multiple shoots. Avoid plants with damaged roots.
- Check leaf colour: glossy, dark green leaves are good. If the leaves are yellowing, the plant may be experiencing stress.
- Ensure the nursery has kept the plant in shade and moist soil. Plants grown in full sun or dry soil may struggle to thrive.
Where to Buy a Cardamom Plant in the UAE
Finding a reliable source is key. Many local nurseries sell ornamental plants, but cardamom requires healthy rhizomes from trusted suppliers. Here's a great source for Green Cardamom Plants in the UAE:
- Offers live cardamom plants suited for UAE conditions..
- Expert advice available for care and cultivation.
Final Tips on How to Cultivate Cardamom Plant in Dubai
Whenever possible, keep soil, never dry; Keep out of direct sunlight with shade cloth. Add humidity by misting and planting together; Fertilize by adding organic matter. Pick harvest pods when they are green and dry in the shade.
Growing cardamom in Dubai is a challenge, but with patience and the right methods, you can enjoy your own supply of this prized spice and a lush evergreen plant in your home garden.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which color cardamom is best?
In other words, Black Cardamom is most appropriate in the cooking techniques, in which you can add the intense flavor and extract the pods later.
It is the best smoky flavor used in tasty meals. In the case of Green Cardamom, one may use the whole spice, and either sweeten it or use it savory.
How to grow cardamom plants at home?
To grow cardamom at home, it is necessary to provide a humid environment with bright and indirect light. The plants can be reproduced either by fresh seed or by division of the rhizome of an existing plant.
How to take care of the elaichi plant?
In order to treat a cardamom plant, it should be given half a shade, a humid environment with a humidifier or a tray of pebbles, and the soil must be perpetually wet and moist rather than waterlogged.