How to Grow Cardamom Spice

Purchase cardamom rhizomes or separate an existing plant. The rhizome roots can be tough, so use a sharp, sturdy knife.

Prepare a planting area in a partially shady location. If your soil pH tests within the acidic range between 5 1/2 and 6 1/2, cardamom should do well in that spot. Add organic compost, leaf litter and other organic materials to the soil. If the growing medium is 50 percent soil and 50 percent organic materials, that is an appropriate mix for cardamom.

Form raised beds that are 3 feet wide, 6 to 8 feet long and at least 8 inches tall. Plant cardamom seeds or rhizomes 8 inches deep and 8 to 10 inches apart and then cover with the soil and compost mixture. Water and mulch the area with dried leaves after planting.

Mist your cardamom every day with rainwater, if it is available. Skip this step if your climate is typically humid more than 50 percent at all times.

Fertilize your cardamom once a month during its active growing season, from spring through fall. Use a plant food designed for indoor foliage plants that contains high amounts of nitrogen and low quantities of potash.

Harvest cardamom seedpods between October and December before they split open.

Dry cardamom seedpods in the sun by spreading them on a tarp or plastic sheet. If your region regularly receives nighttime rain, cover the seedpods at sunset.