CAROM – AJWAIN – अजवाइन (08 Gm)

🌿 How to Grow Organic & Desi Carom (Ajwain)

☀️ 1. Climate & Season

Ajwain grows best in a cool and dry climate (20–30°C).

It doesn’t like too much rain or humidity.

Sowing Time in India:

North India: October–November (Rabi season)

South India: August–January

> 🌤️ Avoid frost or waterlogged areas — plants can get stunted.

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🌾 2. Soil Preparation (Organic Way)

Ideal soil: Loamy and well-drained, rich in organic matter.

Soil pH: 6.5–7.5 (neutral to slightly alkaline).

Before sowing, mix well:

3–4 kg compost or cow dung manure per sq.m.

100 g neem cake powder per sq.m. to prevent soil pests.

> 💡 Ajwain prefers light, fertile soil — heavy clay should be avoided.

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🌱 3. Methods of Sowing

(a) Line Sowing (Best for Field or Bed)

Prepare fine soil and make furrows 30 cm apart.

Sow seeds 1–1.5 cm deep and 10 cm apart in lines.

Cover lightly with soil and sprinkle water gently.

Germination starts in 8–12 days.

(b) Transplant Method (Optional)

Sow seeds in a nursery bed first.

After 25–30 days, transplant healthy seedlings (15–20 cm apart).

This helps get uniform plants and better yield.

(c) Pot / Container Growing

Use 10–12 inch deep pots or grow bags.

Fill with soil + compost (1:1) and sow seeds lightly.

Keep in full sunlight and water gently until germination.

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💧 4. Watering

Water lightly after sowing, then once every 4–5 days.

Avoid overwatering — Ajwain roots are sensitive to excess moisture.

During dry spells, give light irrigation when soil looks dry.

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🌿 5. Organic Feeding

Every 20–25 days, apply:

Vermicompost tea or cow dung slurry

Jeevamrut or Panchagavya spray (for healthy growth)

Don’t use chemical fertilizers — they reduce aroma and oil content.

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🐛 6. Organic Pest & Disease Control

Common problems: Aphids, powdery mildew, and root rot.

✅ Natural Remedies:

Neem oil spray (5 ml per liter) every 10 days.

For fungal issues, spray buttermilk (chaach) diluted with water 1:4.

Keep proper spacing and sunlight to reduce disease.

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🌼 7. Harvesting

Plants mature in 5–6 months.

For leaves: You can start plucking after 2 months.

For seeds: Harvest when flower heads turn brown and dry.

Dry harvested seeds in shade and store in an airtight container.

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🌸 8. Extra Tips

Sunlight: At least 6 hours daily.

Crop rotation: Avoid planting after other Apiaceae family plants (like coriander or fennel).

Companion plants: Mint, tulsi, and coriander help deter pests.