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Caraway Garden Seeds - Below Standard - Low Germ
Germination Details
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Germination: 31%
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State (Utah) Requirements: 55%
- Suggested Use/s: Gardening
- Special Directions: This seed is 24% below standard. Increase the number of seeds you plant to ensure the growth you envision.
What is "Below Standard Seed"?
Simply put, it is seed that doesn't meet our state's (Utah) germination standard, a standard that varies slightly from seed to seed. Any seed intended for gardening with a below-standard germination rate cannot be sold alongside those that meet the state requirements (which often reflect the national requirements for germination).
We send samples of all our seed to the Utah Department of Agriculture, where they perform several tests to assess the quality of the seed. These state-wide and national seed standards are in line with Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA), which exist to ensure consumers that they are getting the highest quality seed, as advertised. Since this seed doesn't meet the state standard, we mark it as "Below Standard Seed".
Low germination seeds are non-refundable.
Click here to view regularly priced, high germination seed.
Growing Non-GMO Caraway Herb Seeds
Sow caraway seeds directly into the garden in either early fall or in the spring as soon as the soil can be worked. Or, start indoors 3-4 weeks before your last spring frost date. Seeds sown in the spring may not flower in the first season, as this is a biennial herb. Leaves may be harvested through the first and second years, though. Caraway seeds need light to germinate and should not be totally covered. Before planting, amend the soil with well-rotted compost to increase nutrients and organic matter.
Water regularly and evenly as the plants establish. Fertilize lightly when seedlings are about 3 inches tall. Caraway has minimal watering needs once established and should be allowed to dry slightly between irrigations. In regions with harsh winters, spread a thick layer of mulch in late fall above the roots.
Caraway in the Herb Garden
Caraway is a classic and attractive addition to any herb garden. This gorgeous biennial lasts two years, producing edible leaves in the first season, followed by leaves, seeds, and roots for harvesting the second year. Be sure to get as much use out of it as possible!
Harvesting Caraway
During the first year of growth, the tender leaves can be individually harvested and added to salads. Never harvest more than a third of the plant’s leaves at a time. Harvesting more may put your plants at risk of not being able to support continued growth. When flowering occurs in the second year, watch for when the seeds start to turn from yellow to brown. Cut the flower heads and place them in a paper bag. The seeds should pop out as they dry. You can also harvest the roots as soon as flowering is finished.
About Caraway Garden Seeds
Almost every part of this versatile plant is edible! The young leaves can be eaten in salads, the seeds can be dried and collected for flavoring foods, and the roots can be boiled and eaten, similar to carrots or parsnips.
Caraway’s ideal environment seems to be relatively cool summers, not too harsh winters, and a sunny, well-draining, dry growing location.
The best way to get a steady supply of blooms, seeds, and roots for harvest each year is to start a batch of seeds in a sunny spot in your garden each spring or fall. After the first year, which likely won’t produce flowers, you will always have a harvest of caraway to enjoy each year! While the new batch of seeds is maturing, the previous year’s batch will be ready for flowering and harvesting.
Seeds Per Package:
- 4 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 48,000 Seeds
- 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 192,000 Seeds
