Characteristics:
Produces
only pretty, carrotlike leaves for the first year. In the second year it sends
up white or pink, umbrella-shaped flower clusters 1 to 3 feet tall that turn
into caraway seeds. Growing
Information:
Give
well-drained soil of moderate fertility, full sun, and freedom from excessive
heat and humidity. Space plants about 8 inches apart. Fertilize when the plants
flower with a balanced organic fertilizer. (Caraway is hardy to zones 8 to
10 if the summers are not too hot.) Propagation:
Sow
outdoors in fall or early spring. Or start the seed indoors in a peat pot 4
weeks before the last spring frost. Move the pot into the garden when plants
are still small, and remove the bottom of the peat pot gently so you won't
damage the taproot. Possible
Problems:
Harvest
seeds to prevent rampant self-sowing. Harvesting
and Using:
Harvest
the seed in late summer when it is ripe. Hang the seed heads over newspaper
and let them dry for several days in a warm, airy location. Collect the seed
and freeze for 48 hours to kill any possible pests. Store in an airtight jar
in a cool, dark location. Use in goulash, soups, cabbage, breads, applesauce,
or cottage cheese dishes. |