Caraway

Caraway, also known as meridian fennel and Persian cumin, is a biennial plant native to western Asia, Europe, and North Africa. The plant has rich green, finely divided, feathery leaves with thread-like divisions, similar to carrot leaves, and petite white buds. Caraway is a favorite spicy herb for adding flavor to breads, sausages, salads, stews, braises, and more. Leaves and seeds are also used as a flavorful balance to sweet breads and desserts. A month or so after the flowers fade, the small tasty seeds ripen and can be collected.

Planting Instructions:

Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep, later thinning seedlings 6-8 inches apart. Use leaves to flavor food during the first year and use the seeds in the second year. It rarely becomes invasive, but if conditions are just right, it will spread. Water regularly but do not overwater. Caraway grows best in sandy or well-draining soil and full sun. After it grows larger, it can tolerate dry soil well. It does not transplant well so direct sowing after last spring frost is recommended. It can also be planted in the Fall.