jeera turning, not sure of right cutting stage and how to dry so smell and colour stay good
When to harvest cumin and how to dry it without losing aroma?
KKanubhai6mo ago · 271 views
4 Answers
🌾Farmer.in Krishi TeamExpert ✓5mo ago
Harvest cumin when the plants turn yellowish brown and the seeds are firm but before they shatter, usually about 100 to 120 days after sowing. Cut in the cooler morning to reduce seed dropping, then dry the bundles in shade or partial sun on a clean threshing floor. Avoid harsh full midday sun for long, since over heating can dull the green grey colour and reduce the volatile oil aroma that buyers value. Thresh gently, clean, and store dry to keep colour and smell. Over dry shrivelled seed and moist mouldy seed both fetch less, so aim for proper moisture. Confirm the accepted moisture and grade with your local market or KVK.
BBharatbhai5mo ago
I cut early morning when there is still a little dew, much less seed falls on the ground. Drying under a light shade net keeps the colour better than open hot sun in my experience.
PPravinbhai5mo ago
Do not wait too long hoping for more weight, once the seed starts shattering you lose it on the floor. I cut as soon as the plants go yellow brown and the seed is firm. A clean threshing sheet under the bundles catches what drops.
JJayantibhai5mo ago
The traders in our mandi pay more for the good green grey colour, so I never bake it in the hot midday sun for hours. Slow drying in partial shade keeps both the colour and the smell. Store it properly dry or it goes musty.