How to grow cilantro from a stem: a simple method for growing in water or soil

Many spices are used in Indian cuisine to give dishes flavor and aroma, among which cardamom holds a special place. It gives tea, chole, and biryani a unique scent. Usually, people buy it as part of monthly supplies, but small cardamom seeds can be quite expensive, creating a financial burden.

If regularly purchasing expensive cardamom becomes burdensome, there is a way to significantly reduce these costs. The good news is that growing cardamom does not require a large garden. By applying the right approach and taking a little care of the plant, you can easily grow a cardamom plant in a pot on a balcony, roof, or yard. This will provide access to fresh cardamom and decorate your home greenery. Below is a simple and reliable method for planting cardamom in a pot.

The primary condition for growing cardamom is having fresh and high-quality seeds. They can be purchased from any good nursery. If you extract seeds from a fruit kept at home, make sure the fruit is green and fresh. Seeds from dry or roasted fruits generally do not germinate.

In the initial stage, it is recommended to use small pots or seed trays. It is crucial that the bottom of the pot has drainage holes so that water does not stagnate and the seeds do not die. Biodegradable pots can also be used, which can then be transplanted directly into a larger container.

Cardamom seeds prefer very light and well-drained soil, in which they germinate best. You need to prepare such a potting mix that retains moisture but does not allow water accumulation. The looser the soil, the better the plant's roots will develop.

Plant 2-3 seeds in each pot at a depth of about half an inch. After that, lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil and gently press down. Planting several seeds at once increases the probability of germination.

Cardamom is a tropical plant, so it needs a warm and humid environment. Place the pot in a location where it is not exposed to direct intense sunlight but still receives enough light. In the initial stage, you can slightly cover the pot with clear plastic to maintain humidity.

The soil around the cardamom plant should remain slightly moist at all times, but this does not mean it should be overwatered. Waterlogging is unacceptable, as it can lead to root rot and decay. It is best to water it using a spray bottle, spraying a light layer of water. Excessive watering can cause seed rot and mold growth.

Do not worry if nothing happens after sowing for several days. Cardamom seeds do not germinate quickly. Generally, this requires 2 to 4 weeks or even longer. During this period, monitor the soil moisture level and temperature.

The plant should be transplanted into a larger pot when it reaches a height of about 3-4 inches and has two or more true leaves. The new location should have nutrient-rich soil that retains moisture well but remains light.

After the plant grows a bit, it needs to be fertilized with organic fertilizers, compost, or balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. This promotes active plant growth and maintains bright green foliage.

The cardamom plant develops slowly. The first fruits usually appear after 2-3 years. When the fruits become green and full, they should be harvested. Before use, they must be thoroughly dried and stored in an airtight container.