Fennel, known as saunf, is an important seed spice in India. It is used in cooking, as a mouth freshener and in medicines. Gujarat and Rajasthan are the main producing states. Here is a simple guide for farmers.
Climate and soil
- Fennel is a rabi crop and needs a cool, dry climate during growth.
- Frost and cloudy, humid weather at flowering can harm the crop.
- Well drained loam or sandy loam soil rich in organic matter is best.
Sowing time
In most areas, sowing is done from October to mid November. Farmers should follow local advice from the Krishi Vigyan Kendra.
Varieties
The ICAR National Research Centre on Seed Spices in Ajmer and state agricultural universities have released improved varieties, such as Ajmer Fennel 1, Ajmer Fennel 2, RF 125 and Gujarat Fennel 2. Choose a variety recommended for your region.
Also Read: Mustard Farming Guide for Rabi: Sowing Time, Seed Rate, Irrigation and Pest Control Tips | Linseed (Alsi) Farming Guide: Sowing Time, Varieties, Irrigation and Care for a Rabi Oilseed
Seed rate and spacing
- Direct sowing usually needs about 8 to 10 kg of seed per hectare.
- Rows are usually spaced around 45 to 60 cm apart.
- Treat seed with a recommended fungicide or bio agent before sowing.
Manure and fertiliser
- Add 10 to 15 tonnes of well rotted farmyard manure per hectare.
- Apply nitrogen, phosphorus and potash based on a soil test. Use the Soil Health Card for guidance.
Irrigation
Give a light irrigation soon after sowing. Later irrigations are needed every 15 to 20 days depending on soil and weather. Avoid waterlogging. Critical stages are flowering and grain filling.
Pests and diseases
- Aphids are a major pest. Monitor regularly and spray only as recommended.
- Powdery mildew and blight can occur in humid weather.
- Use integrated pest management and follow label doses.
Harvest
The crop is ready in about 5 to 6 months. Umbels are picked when grains are fully developed and turn greenish yellow. For high quality saunf used as a mouth freshener, some farmers harvest earlier when grains are green. Dry the umbels in the shade to keep colour.
Yield
Good management can give around 15 to 20 quintals per hectare with improved varieties, though actual yield varies.
Selling tips
- Unjha in Gujarat is one of the biggest spice markets for fennel.
- Clean and grade the produce, since colour and size affect price.
- Check daily mandi prices on Agmarknet or eNAM before selling.
Bottom line
With the right variety, timely sowing and careful drying, saunf can be a profitable rabi crop.
Source / स्रोत: ICAR-National Research Centre on Seed Spices, Ajmer, Spices Board India, Agmarknet
