So before starting with the steps let’s have quick look at some amazing facts about Ajwain;

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• Ajwain shows some analogy with thyme herb as it contains Thymol oil in it.

• It tastes strong, bitter and creates numbness in the mouth for a while.

• Ajwain cleans liver and kidney naturally with extreme ease.

• Eases digestion issues and treats intestinal pain

• It works as a miracle for kids who usually suffer from indigestion or colic.

• Essential oils present in Ajwain prevent anti-bacterial and fungal infections.

• Ajwain’s boiled water is being taken to get relief from respiratory disorders.

• The hair-like structure on the surface makes leaf feel like velvet

• Ajwain can also be used as mouthwash to get relief from earache, toothache and bad breath etc.

• It is being said that Ajwain is an effective remedy, if you are planning to lose some weight

• You can grow it as a hanging plant in your garden area.
   

Dose:                                      Chewing ½ teaspoon of Ajwain every morning with some lukewarm water improves the digestion process.

 

Caution:                              Make sure you consume Ajwain in moderate amount.  As it is hot in nature the overdose of it might cause some severe health issues
                                                    especially during pregnancy or post-pregnancy.

 

Pot Selection:                  8 to 12 inches deep and wider pot with 1 or 2 drainage holes at the bottom.

 

Soil:                                         Well-drained, well-aerated neutral loamy soil. The soil texture and nutrition level can be improved by adding organic compost.

                                                    (Soil pH: 6.5 to 7.5)

 

                                                    For a pot you can use a potting mixture prepared using peat moss, compost and coarse sand in equal amounts.

 

Sunlight:                             Ajwain can tolerate direct sun but keep it at a place where it will get partial sunlight . (not full, in between).
 

                                                    Note:  If the bright green leaves start turning dark, it is a sign that the plant is not getting an adequate amount of sunlight.

 

Temperature:                 Ajwain loves moderately cool and dry climate. So the suitable temperature ranges between 15 to 17°C.

 

Sowing Ajawin:             August to October is the best time to sow Ajwain depending on the climatic conditions. Sowing should take place in such a way so that
                                                    the seed maturity stage will come when the surrounding is dry and rain free. There are 2 techniques of sowing Ajwain;
 

1. Using seeds:                       While sowing the Ajwain using seeds make sure the soil is rich with nutrients. The seeds should be buried at least ¼ inches in the soil. The
                                                    seeds should be evenly scattered on the soil surface. No seed should be placed close to each other.
 

                                                    Once done with this please cover the pot with polythene to trap the moisture inside and maintain humidity to boost up the   
                                                    germination process. Place the pot in the partial sun.

 

                                                    Avoid watering during this period, if you find the need to add water don’t pour it forcefully just sprinkle it gently instead and observe the
                                                    growth.

 

Germination time:              10 to 12 days

     

2. Using stem cutting:       This is easier than the first option. Take 3 to 4 inches  green healthy Ajwain stem and remove all the leaves from the bottom part. Place
                                                    the stem inside the soil and keep watering just to keep the soil moist.

 

                                                    After a few days the stems will start showing tiny leaves on it.
 

Water needs:                  Water, only to keep the soil moist and not soggy. So you can water Ajwain moderately everyday either in the morning or in the evening.

                                                    Well-aerated soil plays an important role here to remove excess water. 

 

Fertilizers:                          Organic compost, rice/pulses water can be added once in a month.

 

Mulching:                           Shredded bark, Grass clippings

 

Pests and Cure:

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Pruning:                              Here is the most essential step in the frame. When you see the growth in your plant may be 6 -8 inches, cut out the lengthy stems. Make
                                                    sure the cutting shears are sterilized. Remove the dried and yellowed leaves, deadhead flowers. Pruning  makes Ajwain grow well and
                                                    look fuller.

 

Harvesting

                                                                          February to March is the season when you will see the fruit for your efforts. Seeds get matured and start turning brown.

                                                                          Pluck out the stems holding seeds on them and then you can beat them slowly with your hands to separate the seeds from
                                                                          the stem.

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                                                                          Ajwain leaves are also harvested. Cut off fresh leaves before you see prominent hair on their surface and you can make use
                                                                          of both of them for food preparation.

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Repotting Ajwain:       Repotting is needed if you see root bound in the plant. Usually It is good practice to repot Ajwain every year.

                                                    Note: Ajwain seeds and leaves need to be used as soon as possible. They cannot be stored for a long time.

 

So this is all about Ajwain. If you have grown Ajwain at your home we would love to know how you have grown it, what kind of techniques have to be implemented to make it thrive well and how to take care of it to keep healthy.