Description
50 Seeds per pack
Caraway (A.K.A. karauya, Persian cumin, field cumin, meadow cumin, and meridian fennel)
Days to Maturity: 70-75 Days
Sun Requirements: Prefers full sun but will tolerate partial shade.
Botanical Name: (Carum Carvi)
Cultivated for centuries and prized throughout Europe and Asia, caraway has long been a kitchen and apothecary staple. A member of the carrot family, this biennial herb was widely grown in medieval herb gardens and is still cherished for its culinary, medicinal, and aromatic properties.
Caraway prefers full sun and well-drained soil, thriving with minimal attention. In its first year, the plant forms a low-growing rosette of feathery, bright green foliage about 8″ tall. By the second season, it produces 2–3′ flowering stalks bearing soft white to pale pink umbel flowers from late spring into summer. These give way to the signature crescent-shaped, brown seeds, which are edible and widely used in cooking. Beneath the soil, the plant forms a long, pale root similar in taste and texture to parsnip.
The seeds have a warm, spicy aroma and offer notes of licorice, pepper, and citrus. They flavor classic rye bread, sauerkraut, sausage, and traditional liqueurs like Aquavit. Leaves can be chopped into soups and salads, while the roots can be roasted or added to winter stews.
Caraway stores well and can be dried for long-term use. In addition to its culinary appeal, its essential oil has long been valued in soaps and skin care. Medicinally it has been used to soothe digestion and reduce inflammation, caraway also supports healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
High in vitamins A, C, E, and K, and rich in calcium, iron, and magnesium, caraway is a flavorful and healthful choice for any herb garden.
Medical Disclaimer:
Caraway has a long history of medicinal use, but its effects may vary depending on the individual and preparation. This plant may interact with medications or trigger allergic reactions in some people. Before using Caraway or any part of the plant for medicinal purposes, consult a qualified healthcare professional. This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. We do not assume responsibility for any adverse effects resulting from its use.
Planting Instructions for Caraway Seeds
When to Plant
Sow caraway seeds outdoors in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked, or in late fall, about 4–6 weeks before the first expected frost. Spring-sown seeds will germinate but won’t flower or produce seeds until their second summer. Fall sowing generally results in earlier flowering and seed production the following year. For indoor starts, sow seeds 3–4 weeks before your last expected frost.
Site Preparation
Select a location with full sun and well-drained sandy soil. Caraway prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 and does best in cooler temperate zones. Avoid areas with high humidity or prolonged wet conditions, which may lead to fungal issues. Enrich the soil with aged compost before planting, and maintain crop rotation every 2–5 years to reduce disease risks.
How to Plant
Caraway seeds require light to germinate, so do not cover them deeply. Outdoors, sow seeds ¼–½ inch deep in rows spaced 18–24 inches apart. Within the rows, space seeds about 8 inches apart, then thin seedlings to 12–18 inches apart once they reach about 4 inches tall. Indoors, gently press seeds into the surface of the soil and lightly cover with vermiculite. Ideal germination temperature is around 65°F. Germination is slow and may take 7–14 days or longer.
Watering and Care
Water regularly during early growth, but allow the soil to dry slightly between watering once plants are established. Avoid wetting the foliage; a drip system is ideal. Reduce watering when flower stalks begin to form, as excess moisture during flowering can lead to fungal issues and lower seed quality. Fertilize lightly when seedlings are 3 inches tall and again at flowering. Mulch in late fall to protect roots in colder climates.
Harvesting
Leaves can be harvested in the first year for use in salads and garnishes. In the second year, cut flower heads once seeds begin turning from yellowish to brown, and place them in a paper bag to dry. Shake seeds loose after several days. Roots can also be harvested after flowering and used like a root vegetable.
Notes
Caraway is a biennial plant, requiring two seasons to complete its life cycle. For consistent seed production, consider planting a second crop each year. This low-maintenance herb has few pest issues but may suffer from fungal blight if conditions are too wet during flowering.
FAQ:
What is the historical or notable background of Caraway?
Caraway has been cultivated for centuries and was a staple in medieval herb gardens, especially throughout Europe and Asia, valued for both culinary and medicinal purposes.
How would you describe the flavor of Caraway?
Caraway seeds deliver a warm, spicy aroma with flavor notes of licorice, pepper, and citrus, making them a distinctive addition to both savory and sweet dishes.
What does Caraway look like, and what are its growing habits?
Caraway grows as a low, feathery green rosette about 8″ tall in its first year, then sends up 2–3′ tall flowering stalks in its second year, topped with delicate white to pale pink umbels. Beneath the surface, it forms a long, pale taproot resembling parsnip in both taste and texture, which can be harvested and used as a root vegetable.
How and when do I harvest Caraway?
In the first year, tender leaves can be harvested as needed for use in salads and garnishes. In the second year, once the seeds begin turning from yellowish to brown, cut the flower heads and place them in a paper bag to dry before shaking the seeds loose. The root can also be dug after flowering and cooked like parsnip.
When is the best time to plant Caraway?
Sow Caraway seeds outdoors in spring at your last expected frost date, or in late fall about 4–6 weeks before the first frost. For indoor starts, sow seeds 3–4 weeks before the last expected spring frost. Caraway takes two growing seasons to produce seeds, so plan accordingly.
What are the common culinary uses for Caraway?
Caraway seeds are traditional ingredient in rye bread, sausages, sauerkraut, and Aquavit; leaves can be chopped into soups and salads, while the roots are delicious roasted or in stews.
What’s the best way to store Caraway after harvest?
After drying, Caraway seeds can be stored in airtight containers, while roots and leaves should be used fresh or refrigerated.
What nutrients does Caraway provide?
Caraway is packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K, along with important minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium, making it a nutritious herb as well as a flavorful one.
Does Caraway have any notable disease or pest resistance?
While generally low-maintenance, Caraway can be prone to fungal blight in overly wet conditions during flowering but faces few pest issues overall.
Keith Knauer (verified owner) –
Excellent, my seeds just sprouted.
Bobby & Rita Duty (verified owner) –
All perfect as always!
Hazel Hardisty (verified owner) –
Excellent!