Planting Seasons in Kodagu: A Simple Month-by-Month Guide

Kodagu (Coorg) has a wet monsoon and a long dry season, and the planting calendar follows the rain. The single most important rule is simple: plant so that young plants have moisture while they settle in.

The short version

The start of the monsoon, roughly June to July, is the main planting window for almost everything: areca, coffee, pepper and most fruit plants. The rain does the watering for you while the roots establish.

Through the year

• March to May (hot, dry): Prepare land now. Dig pits, arrange shade, and book your seedlings early so they are reserved for the rains. Not a time to plant unless you have assured irrigation.
• June to August (south-west monsoon): The main planting season. Soil is moist and rain is steady. Plant areca, coffee, pepper and fruit plants now.
• September to October (tapering rain): A second, shorter window. Planting is still possible, especially for hardy plants, as long as the soil stays moist.
• November to February (cool, drying out): Best for land preparation and light care. Plant only if you can irrigate.

If you must plant in the dry season

It can be done with assured irrigation and temporary shade, but the plant needs steady watering until the next rains. For most growers, waiting for the monsoon gives a stronger start with less effort.

Reserve early

Good seedlings are limited, especially in a busy monsoon. Tell us what you need a few months ahead and we will hold plants for your planting window.

This is general guidance for the Kodagu region. Local conditions vary, so check with your agricultural officer or Krishi Vigyan Kendra for your specific area.