Common Cumin Guide
No need to mine for this mineral! Cumin is an excellent source of Iron which is vital in building that immune system for the cold winter months. Toss in a few tea or tablespoons to your curry, carrots, or rub on your chicken before the grill. Enjoy the overt punch of pepper and subtle citrus notes while you dine in style like the Romans of old.
TO SOW
Cumin grows best in warmer weather between 60°F-85°F. They do great in small spaces or gardens. Bank on Seeds recommends transplanting.
If Direct Seeding
- Direct seed outside 4 weeks after last frost date; or
- Direct seed into a container 12 inches deep and 24-36 inches wide anytime of the year. It can be placed outside when the temperature is between 60°F-85°F; or
If Transplanting
Start the cumin seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date in biodegradable pods that will let the roots grow; germination is best between 55°F-70°F. It can be transplanted outside 10 weeks later.
Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and 4-6 inches apart with rows spaced 12-16 inches apart. Germination will take 7-14 days.
TO GROW
Cumin likes well-draining, fertile soil free of weeds. They also love full sun and warm weather with regular watering. Do not let the soil dry out between watering. Check the top 1-2 inches of soil and if it is dry, then water it. Check the top 2-3inches of soil and if dry, then water the cumin.
Cumin does not need a lot of fertilizer, but you can water with compost tea during high growth periods or use 5-10-10 fertilizer at half strength.
TO REAP
Cumin is full grown in 115-120 days. Cut the stems when the plants have flowered and hang it upside down to dry. Keep a paper bag or container below it to catch the seeds as they fall out. You can then use the seeds as spices either ground or whole. The leaves of this variety can also be picked as needed to be used in salads.
COMMON PESTS/DISEASES
Aphids, thrips, mites - pick off, spray off, insecticidal soap, neem oil
Powdery mildew, Alternaria blight, fusarium wilt – ensure enough air circulation, cut off affected parts, fungicide, neem oil, rotate crop every 3 years
*Plant cumin with cucumbers, beets, and cabbages. *
