High on quality & productivity, Ajmer fennel finds favour with PAU scientists

The high-yielding, oil-rich variety of Ajmer Fennel 2 has already shown promising results in Rajasthan

and Gujarat. Now, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, plans to promote it for wider use in Punjab, citing both its adaptability and profitability.

From lending sweetness to tea and milk to serving as a natural mouth freshener, fennel (Foeniculum Vulgare), better known as saunf, holds a special place in Indian households. It has come to be cherished for its flavour, aroma and medicinal benefits.

Recognising its culinary and industrial importance, PAU’s School of Organic and Natural Farming is encouraging farmers to embrace Ajmer Fennel 2 — promising a blend of productivity and quality.

According to the information, the variety delivers an average seed yield of 5 quintals per acre — 17.1 per cent higher than local varieties. Plants are tall and well-branched, reaching 145-150 cm and seeds contain 1.6–1.8 per cent essential oil, making them valuable for both household kitchens and industrial applications.

The variety also shows moderate resistance to Ramularia blight, ensuring stable performance under Punjab’s field conditions. “The variety is a game-changer for fennel growers,” said Rajender Kumar, Principal Agronomist from PAU’s School of Organic and Natural Farming, adding, “Its combination of higher yield, oil-rich seeds, and disease tolerance makes it a reliable option for farmers seeking better returns.”

His colleague, Vajinder Pal Kalra, said, “Ajmer Fennel 2 not only offers productivity but also quality. The seeds are bold, aromatic and versatile, serving both household kitchens and industrial needs. We strongly encourage farmers to adopt this variety for its long-term benefits.”

Agronomic recommendations include sowing between late October and early November, with crop duration of 170-175 days. Seeds should be sown at 3-4 cm depth using the kera method, with 45 cm spacing between rows and a seed rate of 4 kg per acre.

Nutrient management involves 45 kg urea in 2-3 splits, with the first irrigation scheduled 10-15 days after sowing. Timely weeding and moisture monitoring are essential for robust growth. Harvesting is advised when umbels turn light yellow, while for table-purpose fennel, early April harvest ensures superior aroma and seed quality.