Growing sesame plants isn’t difficult and the beautiful plants not only produce edible sesame seeds, but also attract bees to your garden.
Sesame (Sesamum indicum), a drought-tolerant annual plant from India, is grown for its tiny edible seeds. Those seeds, which may be light or dark in color, have a high oil content, and have been cultivated for thousands of years for oil and tahini, as well as countless other dishes. Thomas Jefferson even grew sesame at Monticello to make an oil for salads, but he also appreciated the beauty of the plants.
What are sesame seeds?
Sesame seeds are the edible seeds of the sesame plant, which are harvested from the seed pods. Sesame seeds are a popular ingredient in many cuisines, particularly in Asian and Middle Eastern cooking. They are high in oil content, which makes them a popular choice for cooking and baking.
Why you should be growing sesame plants in your garden
Sesame plants are beautiful garden plants that attract bumble bees and other pollinators to your garden. The bell-shaped flowers reach peak bloom in July and August and are lovely in both vegetable gardens and flower gardens. You can even try growing sesame plants in large containers or fabric planters. Golden sesame and black sesame are the most common varieties offered in seed catalogs. Golden sesame seeds have a mild flavor, and good crunch. Black sesame seeds are more nutritious, thanks to their intact hull, and have a stronger flavor.
Growing sesame plants from seed: 2 easy options
There are two methods for growing sesame seed plants. The first is to direct sow the seeds outdoors and the second is to give them a head start inside. The method you choose depends on your location and climate.
Option 1: Direct sowing sesame seeds
Gardeners in zone 7 and warmer have long enough growing seasons that they can direct sow sesame seeds outdoors. Don’t plant too early though, as this tender crop needs warm temperatures. Wait until the soil has warmed to 70 degrees F (21 degrees C) which will be a few weeks after the last frost date. To raise soil temperatures, lay black plastic mulch over the seeding bed at least a week before planting. Prepare the site by loosening the soil and adding a half inch of compost or rotted manure. Plant the seeds a quarter to a half inch deep and 3 inches apart, eventually thinning to 6 inches. Maintain a lightly damp soil until the seeds sprout. I find a long-handled watering wand makes it easy to create a gentle shower of water so the seeds don’t get washed away. Set up a mini hoop tunnel covered with clear plastic or lightweight row cover overtop the bed if the spring weather is unsettled. Monitor soil moisture, watering to keep the soil lightly damp for good germination.
Option 2: Starting sesame seeds indoors
Gardeners with shorter growing seasons, zone 6 and colder, benefit from starting sesame seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date. This is so the seedlings can size up before they’re transplanted outdoors. Sow seeds into soil blocks or cell packs, planting them a quarter inch deep. The ideal germination temperature for sesame is between 70 and 85 degrees F (21 and 29 degrees C) and using a seedling heat mat is an excellent idea. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Once the seedlings have two sets of leaves, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden, spacing them 6 inches apart.
Tips for growing sesame plants
- Sesame plants are drought-tolerant, but they still need consistent moisture, especially when they’re producing seeds.
- Sesame seeds have a high oil content, which makes them a popular choice for cooking and baking.
- Sesame seeds have been cultivated for thousands of years, making them one of the oldest domesticated crops.
- Sesame plants attract bees and other pollinators, which are essential for seed production.
- Sesame plants are ornamental, growing 3 to 6 feet tall when given ideal growing conditions.
- Sesame seeds mature in 90-120 days, depending on the cultivar and your climate.
Harvesting sesame seeds
Sesame seeds are ready to harvest when the seed pods turn brown and split open. Cut the stalks, and then tie them in small bundles. Hang the bundles upside down in a warm, dry place, allowing the seeds to dry completely. Once the seeds are dry, remove them from the pods and store them in a cool, dry place.
Conclusion
Growing sesame plants is a rewarding experience that offers many benefits, from edible sesame seeds to attracting pollinators to your garden. With these two easy options for growing sesame seed plants, you can enjoy the beauty and bounty of these incredible plants. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, give sesame a try and discover the joy of growing your own sesame seeds.
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