Caraway

DAYS TO GERMINATION:
10-14 days

SOWING:
Sow shallowly, ¼" deep, about 1 seed per inch in rows 18" apart, in either early spring or fall; both plantings will bloom and produce seed in the second year. Thin to 4–8" apart. Cultivate well when young, as caraway does not compete well with weeds. Be especially careful to prevent injury to roots.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:
Sun.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS:
A rich, well-drained, sandy loam is preferable, but grows well in a variety of soils, including clay. Soil pH of 6–7.5.

PLANT HEIGHT:
24-36".

PLANT SPACING:
4-8".

HARDINESS ZONES:
Biennial.

HARVEST:
Harvest by pulling or cutting the plants as soon as the fruits begin to ripen to minimize shattering, which causes caraway to self-sow. Place harvested plants on a ground cloth or in a paper bag to avoid seed loss. Thresh and winnow to remove and clean the seeds. Dry to 10% moisture content, at temperatures no higher than 100°F/38°C.

SCIENTIFIC NAME:
Carum carvi