Fenugreek, a member of the legume family is an understated tender annual crop widely used across Asia in its more commonly known name ‘Methi’. It can grow up to 2ft in height and offers great benefits for both the health of the consumer and the soil it is planted in. With a distinguished smell and taste, it stands its ground. Versatile, with a high fibre, iron, vitamin C it also can provide as animal feed, ground cover and support nitrogen fixation.
Both seeds and leaves are consumable and usable across the culinary board from savory through to sweet delights. Consumed almost worldwide, though predominantly in tropical nations historically, this humble ‘staple’ spans both space and time. Archaeological remains have been discovered of this crop being used in Iraq dating back 6000 years.
Nitrogen fixing plants form a symbiotic relationship with certain bacteria in the soil enabling the roots of these plants to gather Nitrogen from the air and convert it into a form that can be used by soil bacteria for the benefits of all plant health. As a ground cover, it grows quickly meaning it hinders soil erosion, suppresses weeds whilst building nutrients in the soil for future crops and regulates soil moisture.
Several studies have shown that it aids metabolic symptoms associated with diabetes. It’s high fibre content aids digestion and is chemical compounds help balance hormonal issues in both genders.
Direct sowing is preferrable for Fenugreek as it is too delicate to transplant well. Seeds can be sown as soon as the last chance of frost has passed. A light covering is sufficient, Germination is quick, within a few days and average soil is sufficient for growth. Though sun loving, partial shade is ok. It can be grown as a cut and come again until the plant bolts.
It can be consumed both in its fresh state or dried for longer preservation.