Cloves
Although the time and manner of introduction of cloves into Sri Lanka is not known, it is speculated that the Arabs or colonialists brought the crop to the island, since Sri Lanka was a major market for spices.
Cloves are the unopened flower buds of a tree in the Myrtaceae family. The evergreen tree is called Eugenia caryophyllus. The clove tree is of medium size and has a smooth bark. By distilling the flower buds, the leaves or even the branches remaining after the removal of the flower buds, clove oil is obtained.
Varieties
Whereas there has not been any identification of specific varieties, certain trees produce large sized clove buds. These are known as Bothal Karabu.
Growing Areas
Cultivation of cloves is largely practiced in the wet zones of the mid country. Such areas include the districts of Matale, Kegale, and Kandy. However, growing of clove is also being considered in the low country.
Soils
The best soils for growing of the clove plant are the deep rich loams that have a high content of humus. The crop also thrives well in laterite soils. Sandy soil does not favor the growth of clove. When selecting the land to be used in the cultivation of clove, a well drained land should be considered. A water logged land would largely inhibit the growth of this plant.
