When is the best time to sow ajwain (carom) and which soil suits it?

Ajwain (carom) is a rabi seed spice usually sown from October to November so it flowers and sets seed in cool dry weather and matures before the heat. It does best on well drained loamy soil and dislikes waterlogging, which causes root rot. Sow in lines for easier weeding and a uniform stand, and thin to give plants room to branch. The crop takes several months to mature, with seed ready when the umbels turn brown. Avoid heavy nitrogen, which gives leafy plants and poor seed set. Confirm the recommended variety and exact sowing window for your area with your KVK, as ajwain is grown in pockets of Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.