Tips to take care of your caraway plant at home
What's the story
Caraway, a biennial plant renowned for its aromatic seeds, holds a special place in any herb aficionado's garden.
However, its cultivation requires a keen eye for detail and the right conditions to flourish.
This article shares five crucial tips for growing compact caraway like a pro, guaranteeing a plentiful harvest.
Location
Select the right location
Caraway prefers full sun but can handle a bit of shade.
Choose a spot that gets at least six hours of direct sun each day.
Good drainage is key because caraway doesn't like wet feet.
If your garden stays soggy, raise the beds or add some sand to the soil to help water flow through.
Soil
Soil preparation is key
Caraway thrives best in soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range, between six and 7.5.
To test your soil's pH, use a kit that you can buy from any garden center.
If you need to adjust the pH, add lime to increase it or sulfur to decrease it.
Additionally, enriching the soil with organic compost provides necessary nutrients and enhances drainage, making it ideal for caraway.
Planting time
Timing matters: When to plant caraway
Caraway seeds must be directly sown into the ground in late spring, once the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least four degrees Celsius (39 degrees Fahrenheit).
In areas with mild winters, you may also plant in early autumn, as this will enable the plants to establish a robust root system before the summer heat arrives.
Watering
Water wisely
Although caraway requires consistent moisture during germination and early growth, overwatering can cause root rot and other diseases.
Strive for approximately one inch of water weekly, through a combination of rainfall and supplemental watering if needed.
After establishment, caraway plants exhibit decent drought tolerance but appreciate occasional deep watering during extended dry periods.
Pest control
Fend off pests naturally
Caraway is relatively pest-resistant, but it can sometimes be infested by aphids and carrot rust flies.
To discourage these pests, put companion plants with strong scents, like garlic or onions, near your caraway. Their smells act as natural deterrents.
Check your plants regularly for any signs of infestation.
If you spot any affected leaves, remove them immediately to prevent the pests from spreading.