Caraway Herb Seeds

Carum carvi is a well-loved herb known for its aromatic seeds, which are widely used in cooking and baking. This hardy biennial has a delicate, fern-like foliage and clusters of small white flowers that eventually produce the familiar caraway seeds, which have a warm, slightly sweet, and peppery flavour.

 

The name Carum is derived from the Greek word for the plant, and carvi refers to the spice, which has been used in culinary and medicinal applications for centuries. This herb is particularly popular in European cuisines, ideal for adding flavour to rye bread, stews, and pickles.

 

This easy-to-grow herb thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil and prefers full sun. Caraway grows to a height of 60 - 90 cm, making it perfect for herb gardens, borders, or mixed beds.

 

Its flowers attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, while its seeds can be harvested in late summer for use in the kitchen or for medicinal purposes.

 

Seed Qty: Approx. 175

 

Sow: March - May (indoors) or April - May (outdoors)

Germination: 14 - 21 days

Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; slightly alkaline to neutral pH

Height: 60 - 90 cm

Flowering: June - July

Companion Plants: Thyme, Sage, Parsley

Avoid Planting With: Heavy-feeding plants

 

Caraway is easy to care for once established. Water regularly during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging the soil. The leaves and flowers can be left to attract pollinators, and the seeds can be harvested when fully ripe, usually in late summer or early autumn. Simply dry the seeds in a warm, airy place before storing for later use.

 

Sowing Instructions

 

Indoors: Sow seeds in trays or pots filled with moist, well-drained compost from March to April. Lightly cover the seeds with compost and keep at 18-21°C. Transplant seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle, and harden off before planting outdoors after the last frost.

 

Outdoors: Sow directly into prepared, weed-free soil from April to May. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and keep moist until germination occurs. Thin seedlings to the recommended spacing to allow for healthy growth.

 

Caraway is perfect for adding both flavour and function to your garden. Its fragrant seeds are ideal for culinary use, while its flowers will attract pollinators, making it a valuable addition to herb gardens, kitchen gardens, or edible landscapes.

 

Jekka's Herb Seed Range