Plantation Crops in Kerala Face Threat from Dry and Hot Weather

28-Apr-2026 04:31 PM

Kochi: In Kerala—the country's southernmost state, renowned as the 'Land of Spices'—a severe threat has emerged for plantation crops due to a lack of rainfall and persistently high temperatures. These crops include tea, coffee, coconut, natural rubber, areca nut, and various spices. The small (green) cardamom crop, in particular, is currently in dire need of substantial rainfall.

According to the Kerala Planters Association, the scant pre-monsoon rainfall, coupled with a prolonged spell of dry and hot weather, is adversely affecting the growth of major plantation crops across various parts of the state. If the weather does not cool down soon and bring adequate rainfall, production could witness a drastic decline.

According to the Association, the prevailing weather conditions are unfavorable for these plantation crops. Due to extremely high temperatures and intense heat, the soil has begun to dry out. The resulting lack of moisture is hindering crop development; indeed, the adverse effects are already clearly visible in several regions.

Small and marginal growers are facing an arduous struggle to ensure the very survival of their plantations. If these weather conditions persist, growers could incur heavy financial losses, and their anxiety continues to mount.

Based on field-level assessments, the Association has estimated that this adverse weather could cause damage ranging from 15 to 25 percent to the tea crop, 20 to 35 percent to natural rubber, 20 to 40 percent to coffee, and 30 to 50 percent to the small cardamom crop. The state has experienced a rainfall deficit since as early as March of this year.