Agriculture in the Meenachil basin is distinctly stratified by topography. In the highland origins, tea, cardamom, and other cool-climate spices are prevalent. The midland stretches around Erattupetta and Pala are world-renowned for vast plantations of natural rubber, making Kottayam the "Rubber Capital of India." Other significant midland crops include black pepper, tapioca, plantains, and nutmeg.
As the river approaches the lowlands and Vembanad Lake, the focus shifts to wetland agriculture. Paddy (rice) cultivation is dominant here, utilizing traditional Kuttanad farming techniques, often on land situated at or slightly below sea level. Coconut groves line almost the entirety of the river's banks.