KUROGOMA SEEDS

Sesame indicum

Japanese black sesame. Requisite for superior nurigoma and furikake. Unlike common white sesame seeds, the flavor of black sesame is rich and complex, to the degree that the seeds can even be brewed as an alternative to coffee. In Japan the toasted seeds flavor everything from ice cream to sushi. They are likewise used extensively in Chinese, Indian, and Korean cuisines.

Native to tropical India, these plants prefer a long hot season with a dry autumn. In the Midwest the seeds will typically ripen before the first autumn frost if started early indoors, around 6-8 weeks before transplanting into warm soil in full sun when all danger of frost has passed. Gardeners in the Northeast should likewise start seeds early and hope for an Indian summer. Suitable for large terracotta containers on a hot patio.

Start seeds in 50 cell flats or 3" pots at least six weeks before the last spring frost. Tuck seeds just beneath the surface of moist soil, pressing to keep seed snug and mist generously with warm water. Cover with plastic to maintain moisture and temperature. Kept warm (80°F) and moist in bright light, seeds germinate in a week or so. Uncover promptly, thin to one plant per cell or pot, and grow on in bright light at warm temperatures. Do not overwater.

Once soil has warmed and nights are reliably above 50°F, harden off and transplant into the garden, spacing generously. Sesame absolutely requires full sun and good drainage. Water plants just until established. Do not fertilize or coddle in any way. In a good hot summer that isn't too wet these plants will typically produce ripe seeds in about 90 days. Allow seedpods to dry in the field for as long as possible. If torrential rains threaten, cut seed stalks and allow to dry indoors.

Lush 4' plants have beautiful pale pink tubular flowers. Though the plants take up a lot of space in comparison to the food they produce, the fresh fully ripened seeds are profoundly delicious and superior to any found in American markets. And especially on Amazon. Yuck.

Packet contains at at least 300 seeds.