Cardamom growers in Kerala, especially from the Idukki district, are praying for the Rain Gods to be merciful on them. The entire state has not witnessed even a drizzle for the last 90 days and this unforeseen climatic condition has affected the cardamom plantations seriously. If there will not be heavy rains in the next 10-15 days it could wipe out the cardamom plantations of Idukki district.
Over 50 per cent area under plantations have been in the grip of dry weather and this is more visible in areas like Undumbanchola, Shanthanpara, Pambadumpara and Kalthotti.
During the same season of last year it was an abundance of rains that played havoc with cardamom plantations. But this time, it is the dearth of water and the growers are panicking. The entire state has been bereft of any rain for the last 12 weeks and the high atmospheric temperature and humidity have created a lot of problems for the people in the state.
This is the season of developing panicules on cardamom plants that carry fresh flowers, so this is a crucial period for the next season. According to Jose Vally, a planter from Idukki district, drying up of panicules had became a serious issue as this would cause low level of flowering. Unless there will not be summer rainfall in the next 10 days, the cardamom growers will be in a very difficult situation, he said.
The current harvesting season is at its fag end now and growers are relatively happy of the season as the yearly average price increased to Rs 550 per kg. Although price had dropped to Rs 480-490 a week ago, the current level is Rs 500-510. In 2007, the average price had dropped to Rs 450-460, but 2008 was a relatively promising year for cardamom growers. It is also estimated that production is likely to increase this time and estimates of growers indicate an increase by 10 per cent. The total production might be in a range of 12,000 -13,000 tonne this season.
Auction centres are alive as cardamom is being brought in, though in small quantities. Growers expected better prospects next season which will be active by June-July on the basis of the performance in 2008-09 season.
But the current dry weather condition is a serious concern as this may destroy a major chunk of plantations.
