Cultivation of Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.)/Jeera; cumin yields a substantial profit when managed properly

Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) is a popular spice crop in the Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) family. Its seeds are valued for their scent and medicinal properties. Cumin is an annual herbaceous plant with a thin, glabrous, branching stem of 3–5 cm in diameter and 20–30 cm tall. There are two to three sub-branches within each branch. Since every branch grows to the same height, the plant has a consistent height. It is a seasonal crop grown in the Rabi season. The cash crop cumin yields a substantial profit when managed properly.

The total area under cumin cultivation in India during the year 2024-25 is 10.94 Lakh hectares, with a production of 723.80 MT Gujarat and Rajasthan are the two Indian states where the cumin crop is primarily cultivated. Gujarat state produces the most cumin crop (421.78 MT), whereas Rajasthan state cultivates the most (6.66 lakh hectares).  

According to data on cumin exports from India, the country shipped more than 1.84 lakh metric tons of cumin in 2023–2024 and anticipates exporting 1.92 lakh metric tonnes in 2024–2025. India is the top exporting country in the world, with a total export of USD 617 million. Unjha is the largest cumin market in India

Medicinal Uses of Cumin Seeds:

Cumin has been used for generations to treat diseases, including headaches, diarrhea, and indigestion. In India, it has been used to treat leprosy, kidney and bladder stones, and eye diseases 

• Antimicrobial Properties: Cumin may help eliminate some bacteria that can enter your body and cause illness. It inhibits the growth of bacteria, such as E. coli, which can result in food poisoning. The traditional usage of cumin as a preservative may be due to its antibacterial qualities.

• Control of Cholesterol: Cumin may help people manage their cholesterol levels. Adding cumin powder to yogurt increased “good” (HDL) cholesterol while decreasing “bad” (LDL) cholesterol and the triglycerides.

• Management of Diabetes: Cumin has long been used as an antidiabetic medication, and can help reduce blood urea, an organic substance that may affect how your body reacts to insulin. Cumin may also help maintain blood sugar levels, according to a study on animals, but further research is required.

• Control of Weight:  Cumin powder decreased the body mass index (BMI), weight, waist circumference, and fat mass in one study. Cumin supplements may be just as successful in lowering weight and BMI as a popular weight-loss medication, according to another study.

Nutritional value of Cumin Seeds ;

Nutritional value per 100 g
Energy	1,567 kJ (375 kcal)	% DV
Water	8.06 g
Carbohydrates	44.24 g
Sugars	2.25 g
Dietary fibre	10.5 g
Fat	22.27 g
Saturated	1.535 g
Monounsaturated	14.04 g
Polyunsaturated	3.279 g
Protein	17.81 g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins	Quantity	%DV
Vitamin A equiv.	64 μg	7%
beta-Carotene	762 μg	7%
Vitamin A	1270 IU
Thiamine (B1)	0.628 mg	52%
Riboflavin (B2)	0.327 mg	25%
Niacin (B3)	4.579 mg	29%
Minerals	Quantity	%DV
Calcium	931 mg	72%
Iron	66.36 mg	369%
Magnesium	931 mg	222%
Manganese	3.333 mg	145%
Phosphorus	499 mg	40%
Potassium	1788 mg	60%
Sodium	168 mg	7%
Zinc	4.8 mg	44%

Source; usda.gov

Climate and Soil Requirement for Cumin Cultivation;

• Cumin is a tropical plant. It thrives in subtropical climates. This crop is susceptible to fungal diseases due to high humidity during blooming and fruit set.
• Cumin is a crop that can be grown successfully in a cool, dry climate (15 to 25 degrees Celsius) for good growth and production. As a result, cumin cultivation is limited to areas with low atmospheric humidity and mild winters. 
• A variety of soil types, including sandy, sandy loam, and medium to heavy soils with high levels of organic matter and improved fertility, are ideal for growing cumin.
• Since cumin crops are severely harmed by standing water and excessive moisture, the soil should have improved drainage capabilities.
• Black cotton soils of middle Gujarat, including the districts of Ahmedabad, Surendranagar, and Rajkot, as well as the sandy soils of Kutchand and Rajasthan, are used to grow cumin. Nonetheless, the crop thrives in sandy to loamy soils.
• Cumin also thrives in heavy, slightly saline soils with retained moisture.

Types of Cumin Seeds;

Cumin cyminum;

• The yellow-brown cumin seeds are the most widely used type in our cooking.
• These common cumin seeds have an oblong form with a ridged surface, just like caraway seeds and other members of the Parsley family.

 Cuminum nigrum or Bunium persicum;

• Also known as Shahi Jeera or bitter cumin seeds.
• It is a common traditional spice in Indian culture, closely linked to Kashmiri and Mughal cuisines. 
• It is pale to dark green in hue and oblong in shape. 

Black cumin seeds:

 

• Also referred to as kalaunji or Nigella Sativa, black cumin seeds differ greatly from their counterparts in appearance.
• These are thinner and smaller than most of the others, and they are as dark as charcoal.
• It tastes sweet and citrusy with a hint of bitterness, similar to the taste of oregano, black pepper, and onions.
• Fennel seeds are occasionally used in place of black cumin.
• Adding a tablespoon of black cumin to your stir-fried vegetables or non-vegetarian roasts can enhance their flavor. 

Brown cumin seeds:

• Brown cumin and black cumin are closely related.
• These brown cumin seeds, which are used in Mexican, Indian, and North African cuisines,
• They are larger and fatter than black cumin seeds.
• The seeds, which have a warm, earthy, and peppery flavor, can be used with grain, legumes, root vegetables, and other foods, even when they are powdered.

Popular Varieties of Cumin ;

 

Variety	Chatracterstics
RJ-19	The plants exhibit an erect growth habit, bear pink-colored flowers, and have bold, pubescent grains. It takes 120 -140 days to mature and gives an average yield of 5-6q/ha.
RZ-209	The variety has shown tolerance to wilt. It takes 140-150 days to reach maturity and a seed yield of 6.5q/ha.
RZ-223	The variety is resistant to wilt. The seeds yield an oil content of 3.23 percent and a seed yield of 6.0q/ha.
Gujarat Cumin-1	The plants are erect with pink flowers and bold, linear, oblong, brown grains. The variety is tolerant to wilt disease. It matures in 105-110 days and gives an average yield of 7.0q/ha
Gujarat Cumin-2	The plants are bushy with good branching habit and attractive foliage. It matures in 100 days and gives an average yield of 7.0q/ha.
Gujarat Cumin-3	The variety is resistant to wilt. It matures in 100 days and yields an average of 7.0q/ha, with an essential oil content of 3.5%.
Gujarat Cumin-4	It gives an average yield of 8.75 q/ha and is resistant to Fusarium wilt
CZC-94	ICAR-CAZRI produced a climate-resilient, short-duration cumin cultivar. It grows early, needs less water and nutrients, and produces superior yields under stress, making it perfect for arid areas. For cumin farmers in arid regions, its versatility and early harvest potential make it an advantageous choice.

Field Preparation for Cumin Seed/Jeera Cultivation:

• Two to three ploughings using a harrow or deshi plough bring the soil to a fine tilth.
• It is important to gather and remove the previous crop’s stubble from the field.
• Clods ought to be cracked, and Planks should be used to level the field.
• Beds measuring four meters by three meters and equipped with irrigation.
• Before seeds are sown, channels should be made to allow for adequate irrigation and cross-cultural activities.

Crop Rotation for Cumin Seed/Jeera Cultivation:

• Dhaincha – Cumin
• Dhaincha – Cumin – Green gram
• Maize – Cumin – Summer moong
• Pearl millet – Cumin.

Seed and Sowing of Cumin Seed/Jeera Cultivation:

a) Seed Treatment:

• Seeds should be soaked in water for eight hours and then surface dried in a shaded area for improved and quicker germination.
• Treat with ceresan, thiram, or bavistin at a rate of 2.5 g/kg. To manage blight and wilt diseases, apply Trichoderma harzianum strain I at a rate of 40 kg/ha and 8–10 grams per kg of seed.

b) Sowing Time:

• Sowing from mid-November to the first week of December is the ideal period to sow.
• Crops planted in the second week of December experienced the least amount of infestation.

C) Seed Rate:

Depending on the type of soil and the method of planting, the seed rate ranges from 12 to 15 kg/ha.

D) Method of Sowing:  Seeds can be sown in lines or by the spreading method. Iron-toothed rakes should be used to softly cover the seeds with dirt after disseminating. Sowing lines with a row-to-row spacing of 30 cm. and plant-to-plant spacing of 15 cm is preferable over the broadcasting method. The depth of sowing should be 1-2 cm

Manure and Fertilizer Requirements for Cumin Crop ;

• Fertilizer should be applied in accordance with the results of soil testing. Joudiously the right amounts of manure and fertilizer for plant growth, seed development, yield, and produce quality.
• For cumin crops, 15–20 MT of FYM, 30 kg of nitrogen, and 15 kg of phosphorus per hectare are advised.
• During land preparation, the entire amount of FYM should be thoroughly mixed into the soil. As a base dose, 15 kg of nitrogen and the whole phosphorus should be applied.
• An additional 15 kilograms of nitrogen should be applied as a top dressing after the seedlings have germinated. (Approx. 30 DAS)

Water Management for Cumin Crop;

• Depending on the type of soil, the crop needs between 4 – 6 rounds of irrigation.
• The first light watering should be applied right away after the seeds are sown.
• The second watering should happen 6 to 10 days after the first irrigation. Following that, the next waterings should be given at intervals of 30, 45, 65, and 80 days from the date of the first irrigation.
•  Essentially, provide water during the flowering and fruiting stages, as this helps in the proper development of the plant.
• Once the crop reaches its mature stage, irrigation should be stopped completely.

Weed Control in Cumin Crop;

• To ensure the crops grow well and develop properly, it is important to keep the area free from weeds.
• Weeds can compete with the plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight, which can hinder their growth. Therefore, regular weeding is necessary.
• Typically, two to three hand weeding sessions are needed to effectively control the weed population.
• Crops that are planted in rows or drilled, light intercultural operations such as weeding and hoeing are highly beneficial.
• The first weeding and hoeing should be carried out approximately 30 to 40 days after the seeds have been sown. This helps in maintaining a healthy and productive crop throughout its growth cycle.

Diseases and Pest Management in Cumin Crop ;

1) Diseases Management  ;

a) Alternaria Blight: Small, isolated, white necrotic patches on the leaf and stem are the first signs of the disease. These patches progressively grow, clump together, turn purple, and eventually develop brown spots on the leaves, stems, and tips that bend downward before turning black. 

Control: It is recommended to apply seed treatment along with four sprays of a 0.2% solution of Dithane-M-45, starting from 40 days after sowing and continuing at intervals of 10 days each. To ensure the fungicide works more effectively, add 1 milliliter of soap solution to every liter of water used for spraying. It is important to keep the crop area free from weeds to prevent any competition for nutrients and water. Additionally, crops that require a lot of irrigation and mustard crops should not be planted near this crop to avoid any negative impact on its growth.

b) Powdery mildew; In the early stages of infection, the affected plants display very small, faint white spots on the leaves, as well as on the petioles, stems, pedicels, and seeds. As the disease progresses, the plants appear as if they have been coated with a fine layer of white powder. During later stages, the seeds turn completely white, become dry, and are significantly lighter in weight.

Control: To manage this disease effectively, it is recommended to apply 300 mesh sulfur dust at a rate of 25 kilograms per hectare as soon as the symptoms are detected.Additionally, spraying wettable sulfur or Dinocap (such as Karathane or Thiowet) can also be an effective method for controlling the disease. The recommended dosage is 20 to 25 grams of the pesticide per 10 liters of water, applied at the initial stage of the disease. If necessary, a second application should be made 15 to 20 days after the first spray to ensure complete control of the infection.

c) Wilt; In the early stages of infection, the affected plants display very small, faint white spots on the leaves, as well as on the petioles, stems, pedicels, and seeds. As the disease progresses, the plants appear as if they have been coated with a fine layer of white powder. During later stages, the seeds turn completely white, become dry, and are significantly lighter in weight.

Control: To manage this disease effectively, it is recommended to apply 300 mesh sulfur dust at a rate of 25 kilograms per hectare as soon as the symptoms are detected. Additionally, spraying wettable sulfur or Dinocap (such as Karathane or Thiowet) can also be an effective method for controlling the disease. The recommended dosage is 20 to 25 grams of the pesticide per 10 liters of water, applied at the initial stage of the disease. If necessary, a second application should be made 15 to 20 days after the first spray to ensure complete control of the infection.

2) Pest Management ;

a) Aphid: Aphid is a significant problem for cumin crops. These tiny insects feed on the sap of the young and soft parts of the plant, which can lead to a decrease in the amount of crop produced.

Control: To manage aphid infestations, it is recommended to spray either a 0.03% solution of Dimethoate, a 0.025% solution of Methyl demeton, or spray Thiamethoxam 25% WG @40 grams per acre dissolved in 200 litres of water. These treatments help in controlling the aphid population effectively.

b) Leaf-eating Caterpillar; This is another harmful pest that feeds on the leaves of the plants, causing damage to the foliage and ultimately leading to a reduction in the crop yield.
Control: To deal with this pest, especially in the early stages of crop growth, spraying a 0.02% solution of Phosphomidon is advised. This helps in keeping the caterpillar population under control and minimizes the damage to the plants.

Harvesting of the cumin crop ;

• usually takes around 110 to 115 days from the time the seeds are sown until the plants are mature and ready for collection.
• One of the main signs that the crop is ready for harvesting is when the plants start to turn a yellowish–brown color.
• It is best to carry out the harvesting process early in the morning, as this helps to reduce the stress on the plants and also makes it easier to handle them.
• During harvesting, the entire plant is either cut down or uprooted.
• Once the crop is harvested, it needs to be spread out in the threshing yard to dry properly.
• After the drying process is complete, the seeds are separated from the plant material through a process called threshing.
• Finally, the seeds are cleaned by winnowing, which involves gently shaking them in the air to allow the lighter, chaffy parts to be carried away by the wind, leaving behind the clean, viable seeds.

Yield of Cumin Crop;

Yield: Approx. 600 to 700 kg/h