CUMIN SEEDS – जीरा (5 Gm)

🌾 How to Grow Organic & Desi Cumin Seeds (Jeera)

☀️ 1. Climate & Season

• Cumin grows best in hot and arid conditions.
• Optimal temperature: 25–35°C
• Sowing time in India:
  • North India: October–November (post-monsoon)
  • South India: October–December
• Cumin is a short-day crop and takes 100–120 days to mature.

🌿 2. Soil Preparation (Organic Way)

• Prefers light, sandy loam soil with good drainage.
• Soil pH: 6.0–8.0
• Mix in well-rotted cow dung or compost before sowing.
• Avoid waterlogged or heavy clay soil — cumin roots rot easily.

🌱 3. Methods of Growing

(a) Furrow / Line Sowing Method

• Make furrows 10–12 inches apart.
• Sow seeds 0.5–1 cm deep, spacing about 2–3 cm between seeds.
• Cover lightly with soil.
• Water gently after sowing.

(b) Broadcasting Method

• Scatter seeds evenly over the prepared bed.
• Cover lightly with soil and water.
• Easy but less uniform; thinning may be required later.

(c) Raised Bed Method

• Make raised beds with good drainage.
• Mix compost or vermicompost before sowing.
• Helps in root aeration and reduces waterlogging risk.

(d) Pot or Container Method

• Use 6–8 inch deep pots for small-scale or terrace cultivation.
• Sow 5–6 seeds per pot, thin to 2–3 healthy seedlings.
• Keep in full sun.

💧 4. Watering

• Water lightly after sowing to keep soil moist but not soggy.
• Cumin requires very little water — irrigation only at germination and flowering stage.
• Avoid overwatering — roots rot easily.

🌿 5. Organic Nutrition

• Mix vermicompost or cow dung manure into soil at sowing.
• Foliar spray of Jeevamrut or Panchagavya at 30–40 days for better plant vigor.
• Avoid chemical fertilizers — they reduce essential oil content.

🐛 6. Pest & Disease Control (Organic)

Common pests: aphids, stem fly, and powdery mildew.

✅ Organic Control:

• Neem oil spray (5 ml per liter) for aphids.
• Use Turmeric + cow urine spray for fungal issues.
• Rotate crops yearly to prevent soil-borne diseases.

🌼 7. Harvesting

• Ready in 100–120 days when seeds turn light brown and plant starts drying.
• Cut plants at the base and dry in shade or sunlight.
• Thresh seeds gently and store in a cool, dry place.

🌸 8. Extra Tips

• Companion crops: Coriander or Fennel grow well with cumin.
• Keep beds weed-free to reduce competition.
• Ensure sunlight for at least 6–8 hours daily for high essential oil content.
• Avoid overwatering — cumin thrives in dry conditions.