Cumin Seeds

Cuminum cyminum is a delicate Half-Hardy Annual (H2). A member of the Apiaceae family—sharing heritage with parsley and coriander—it originates from the sun-drenched, arid regions of the Eastern Mediterranean and India. This background means the plant requires a long, warm growing season to successfully ripen its aromatic seeds.

UK Growing Requirements: Due to its demand for heat, Cumin is best treated as a greenhouse, conservatory, or polytunnel crop in the UK. While it can succeed outdoors in the far south of England during exceptionally hot, dry summers, protected cultivation is strongly recommended to guarantee a successful seed harvest.

Compact & Wispy: The plant is naturally low-growing (approx. 30-40cm) with slender, thread-like green leaves. Its compact habit makes it an excellent candidate for container growing on a sunny windowsill or greenhouse staging where space is at a premium.

Cumin possesses a sensitive root system and deeply dislikes root disturbance; careful handling during the seedling stage is essential.

How to Sow:
Sow indoors from April to May. We recommend sowing into individual biodegradable modules or small pots to minimize transplant shock. Surface sow onto moist seed compost and cover with only a thin layer of vermiculite. Maintain a consistent temperature of 18-20°C; germination typically occurs within 7-14 days.

Where to Grow:
They demand full sun and significant warmth. Only move plants to their final positions in late May or June once all risk of frost has passed. For the most reliable harvest, grow Cumin under glass. If planting outdoors, choose the most sheltered, south-facing, sun-baked spot in your garden with well-drained soil.

Harvesting the Spice:
The seeds are ready for harvest approximately 3-4 months after sowing, once the flowers have faded and the plant begins to wither and turn brown. Cut the entire stems and hang them upside down inside a paper bag in a warm, dry location. As the seeds fully dry, they will naturally drop into the bag, ready for storage and culinary use.

Create a dedicated "Spice Corner" in your greenhouse or conservatory by growing Cumin alongside these heat-loving partners from our range:

• 🌿 Coriander 'Confetti': The Curry Partner. Cumin and Coriander are the dual pillars of Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. Growing them together allows you to harvest fresh, feathery leaves (Coriander) and punchy, sun-ripened seeds (Cumin) for the ultimate home-grown curry base.
• 🌶️ Chilli 'Habanero': The Heat Lovers. Both species demand the protected warmth of a greenhouse or sunny conservatory to reach their full potential. Together, they provide the primary ingredients for an authentic, high-quality home-grown chilli con carne or spice paste.

Sow indoors in spring to ensure a gourmet harvest of sun-ripened cumin seeds by late summer or early autumn.