How to Grow Cumin
Cuminum cyminum
Cumin is a slender half-hardy annual that needs warmth and a long growing season — at least 3–4 months of heat. Sow in modules 3 weeks before last frost and transplant when nights stay above 15°C. Choose the sunniest, most sheltered spot you have. The ferny, thread-like plants flower from tiny white-pink umbels, then set aromatic seed pods. Harvest the whole plant when seed heads turn brown and papery, and dry thoroughly before storing. In cooler climates, starting early under cover is key to getting a full crop.
When to Start
Sow indoors 3 weeks before last frost, or direct sow outdoors after frost risk has passed and soil reaches 18°C.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Light balanced feed once at planting-out. Avoid high nitrogen — it promotes foliage at the expense of seed production.
- Cumin needs a long hot summer — in the UK it does best under cover or in a warm sheltered spot. Sow in modules 3 weeks before last frost and plant out when nights are reliably warm. Fragrant thread-like foliage and tiny white-pink umbel flowers. The whole seed head is the harvest.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 18°C+
- Germination temperature
- 20–30°C
- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 15 cm |
| Row spacing | 25 cm |
| Sow depth | 0.5 cm |
| Mature height | 40 cm |
| Mature spread | 20 cm |
Thin to 15 cm between plants for good air movement. Grows best in dense blocks that shelter each other from wind.
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 18°C |
| Germination temperature | 20–30°C |
| Base growth temperature | 10°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Cumin?
- Plant Cumin 15cm apart with 25cm between rows.
- When can I harvest Cumin?
- Cumin is ready to harvest approximately 80 days after transplanting.
- Is Cumin frost hardy?
- Cumin is classified as Half Hardy.
