Fenugreek Desi Seeds (Trigonella foenum-graecum):
A hardy, fast-growing herb valued for its flavorful leaves and aromatic seeds. The Desi variety offers high yield and rich aroma, ideal for Indian climates. Grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. Used for fresh greens, dried Kasuri Methi, and spice seeds. Packed with protein, fiber, and iron, fenugreek supports digestion and overall health.
Description: Fenugreek, commonly known as Methi, is a traditional and versatile herb widely grown for its aromatic leaves and flavorful seeds. The Desi variety is known for its strong aroma, high seed yield, and superior adaptability to Indian climatic conditions. It is a cool-season annual legume that enriches the soil with nitrogen and is valued for both culinary and medicinal uses.
Plant Characteristics:
Type: Annual herb
Family: Fabaceae
Height: 30–60 cm
Leaves: Small, trifoliate, light green leaves with a distinct aroma
Flowers: Small, white to pale yellow blooms
Seeds: Small, hard, yellowish-brown seeds with a characteristic bitter flavor
Growing Information:
Sowing Season: October to February (cool season)
Sowing Depth: 1.5–2 cm
Spacing: 10–15 cm between plants, 25–30 cm between rows
Germination Time: 6–10 days
Sunlight: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained loamy soil rich in organic matter; pH 6.0–7.0
Watering: Moderate; avoid waterlogging
Cultivation Tips:
Use well-decomposed compost before sowing.
Weed regularly during the early stages of growth.
Harvest leaves for fresh methi around 20–25 days after sowing; for seeds, allow full maturity (90–110 days).
Fenugreek also acts as a soil improver due to its nitrogen-fixing ability.
Harvest: For greens, harvest tender shoots when 4–6 inches tall. For seed production, collect pods when they turn yellow and dry them before threshing.
Uses:
Culinary: Fresh leaves used as greens and dried leaves (Kasuri Methi) as a spice; seeds used in curries, pickles, and spice blends.
Medicinal: Seeds and leaves aid digestion, regulate blood sugar, and improve metabolism.
Agricultural: Acts as a green manure crop improving soil fertility.
Nutritional Value: Rich in protein, fiber, iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. Fenugreek supports overall wellness, promotes healthy digestion, and helps manage cholesterol and blood sugar levels.