Fenugreek, also known as methi, is an herb with culinary and medicinal uses. It is widely grown for its flavorful leaves and seeds, which are used in various dishes and herbal remedies.
Botanical name: Trigonella foenum-graecum
Plant morphology: Fenugreek is an annual herb that grows up to 60 cm in height. It has light green, trifoliate leaves with a distinctive aroma. The flowers are small, white, and pea-like, and the seeds are yellow-brown, rectangular-shaped, and about 3-5 mm in size.
Soil and climatic requirements: Fenugreek prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. It grows best in neutral to slightly alkaline soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. It is a cool-season crop that thrives in temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C.
Crop duration: 90-120 days
Cropping season: Fenugreek is typically grown during the cooler months of the year, such as autumn and spring.
Planting type: Direct sowing is commonly practiced for fenugreek.
Spacing: Sow seeds about 10-15 cm apart in rows spaced 30-45 cm apart.
Depth of sowing: Sow the seeds about 1-2 cm deep in the soil.
Germination period: Fenugreek seeds germinate within 6-7 days under favorable conditions.
Hours of sunlight required: Fenugreek requires full sun to partial shade and at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Watering: Fenugreek needs regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid overwatering to prevent waterlogging.
Harvesting: Fenugreek leaves can be harvested when they are about 6-8 cm long, which is usually around 30-35 days after sowing. The entire plant can be harvested by cutting it about 2.5 cm above the soil surface. The seeds are harvested when the pods turn yellow-brown and start to dry on the plant.
Companion crops: Fenugreek grows well with other cool-season crops such as peas, lettuce, and spinach.
Problems of fenugreek cultivation:
Pests: Aphids, whiteflies, and mites can infest fenugreek plants.
Diseases: Powdery mildew, damping-off, and root rot can affect fenugreek plants, especially in humid conditions.
