How to Say "to cultivate" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “to cultivate” is “cultivar” — A2 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
Mi abuelo cultiva tomates en su jardín.
My grandfather grows tomatoes in his garden.
Es difícil cultivar arroz en este clima tan seco.
It is difficult to grow rice in this very dry climate.
Ellos cultivan la tierra con métodos tradicionales.
They farm the land using traditional methods.
Grow vs. Cultivar
In English, you can say 'the plant grows' (it happens on its own) or 'I grow plants' (you do the work). In Spanish, use 'crecer' for the plant's own growth, and 'cultivar' for the work you do to make it grow.
Using 'Crezco' for Farming
Mistake: “Crezco tomates en mi patio.”
Correction: Cultivo tomates en mi patio. (Use 'cultivar' when you are the one doing the gardening/farming).
Other Meanings of “cultivar”
“cultivar” can also mean:
- a relationship, skill, or the mind(B2)
Related Translations
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.