Wayanad spices

Wayanad spices

Wayanad is a major hub for a diverse range of spices, with its fertile soil and climate ideal for growing high-quality products like cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. The district is also known for its extensive coffee plantations, with some arguments suggesting Wayanad coffee ranks among the best globally. Other important crops include vanilla, ginger, and nutmeg. These spices are often grown together in plantations, where visitors can take tours to learn about cultivation and processing. 

Key spices cultivated in Wayanad

• Cardamom: Often called the "Queen of Spices," it's highly prized for its aroma and flavor.
• Black Pepper: Wayanad produces high-quality black pepper, which is famous for its aroma and is sometimes grown mixed with coffee plants.
• Cinnamon: Aromatic cinnamon is another staple of Wayanad's spice plantations.
• Cloves: These are also among the premium spices cultivated in the region.
• Vanilla: Vanilla is considered a main cash crop in the area, alongside other spices.
• Ginger: This is another important spice grown in the district, particularly in its valleys.
• Coffee: Wayanad is renowned for its coffee production, with over 80% of Kerala's coffee grown here.
• Nutmeg: This spice is also part of Wayanad's diverse spice crop. 

Cultivation and tourism

• Wayanad's unique topography and fertile soil create an excellent environment for growing a variety of spices.
• Spice plantations are a common sight, where different spices are grown in various sections.
• The district offers spice plantation tours where visitors can walk through the plantations, see the plants, and learn about the harvesting and processing of spices.
• Coffee is often cultivated either on its own or mixed with black pepper plants.
• Homestead farming is also popular, including crops like pepper, coconut, and jackfruit.