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How to Grow CARAWAY (Carum carvi)
- Plant, biennial, hardy to 3degC
- Height: 60cm
- Soil: neutral, well drained
- Exposure: sun
- Propagation: seeds
- Uses: culinary
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During
its first year, caraway grows about 20 cm high and then reaches
about 60cm in the second. In the second year, flat, umbrella like
clusters of greenish white flowers appear on the stems above the foliage
and in midsummer ripen into seeds-after which the plant dies. Foliage is
delicate and lacy, like that of carrots.
A native of southeastern Europe and western Asia, caraway has been in
use for thousands of years. Seeds which are believed to be caraway have
been found in ancient lake villages in Switzerland. Ancient Greeks
prescribed caraway seeds for bringing color back into the faces of girls
with pale complexions. The seeds were eaten by the Romans to relieve
indigestion, and its roots were cooked and eaten like carrots or
turnips. Now, caraway is used as a flavoring in Kummel and foods such as
rye bread.
Start caraway from seeds sown in the fall or spring where they are to
grow. This herb thrives in well drained, neutral garden soil and full
sun. In cold climates, protect yearling plants with a mulch during the
winter.
Harvest the seeds when they have ripened but before they fall to the
ground. They can be used to flavor pickles, cabbage, Brussels sprouts,
cauliflower, and rye bread; or serve them in the traditional old English
manner-in a small dish along with baked apples.
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