How to Grow Fenugreek
Trigonella foenum-graecum
Fenugreek is a fast, forgiving herb grown for both its fresh leaves (methi greens, essential in Indian cooking) and its aromatic seeds (used whole or ground in curries, breads, and spice blends). Direct sow outdoors after last frost, or grow in pots on a sunny windowsill year-round. Soak seeds overnight for best germination. First leaf harvest is ready in just 3-4 weeks. For fresh greens, cut at 10-15 cm and let plants regrow. For seed harvest, allow plants to flower and pods to dry. As a legume, it needs no nitrogen fertiliser and actually improves soil for the next crop. Succession sow every 2-3 weeks for a steady supply of leaves.
When to Start
Sow indoors 2 weeks before last frost, or direct sow outdoors after frost risk has passed and soil reaches 10°C.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- No feeding required. As a legume, fenugreek fixes its own nitrogen. Excess fertiliser produces lush growth but weakens flavour.
- Dual-purpose herb grown for fresh leaves (methi greens) and dried seeds (fenugreek spice). Extremely fast-growing. Soak seeds overnight before sowing for quicker germination. Also used as a green manure crop to fix nitrogen.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 10°C+
- Germination temperature
- 15–30°C
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- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 10 cm |
| Row spacing | 25 cm |
| Sow depth | 1 cm |
| Mature height | 50 cm |
| Mature spread | 20 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 10°C |
| Germination temperature | 15–30°C |
| Base growth temperature | 10°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Fenugreek?
- Plant Fenugreek 10cm apart with 25cm between rows.
- When can I harvest Fenugreek?
- Fenugreek is ready to harvest approximately 20 days after transplanting.
- Is Fenugreek frost hardy?
- Fenugreek is classified as Half Hardy.
