Fennel farming plays a vital role in India's seed spice sector, offering both culinary and medicinal value. To enhance productivity and meet growing demand, continuous efforts have been made to develop improved varieties. One such advancement is Ajmer Fennel-2 (AF-2), a high-yielding and disease-resistant variety developed by the ICAR-National Research Centre on Seed Spices (NRCSS), Ajmer, Rajasthan. AF-2 was the result of extensive multi-location trials conducted across 27 sites in India between 2010 and 2015. .
The breeding program prioritized traits such as superior yield potential, resistance to common diseases, and enhanced essential oil content. Recognizing its agronomic and commercial value, the variety was officially released and notified by the Central Variety Release Committee (CVRC) in 2018 for widespread cultivation.
Ajmer Fennel-2 (AF-2): Agronomic Management
1. Sowing and Spacing
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Recommended sowing time: 15th October for optimal growth.
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Seed rate: 8-10 kg/ha.
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Spacing: 50 cm row-to-row and 25 cm plant-to-plant.
2. Irrigation and Fertilization
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Irrigation: 5-6 irrigations are sufficient, depending on soil type and climate.
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Fertilizer requirement:
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5-10 t/ha FYM (Farmyard Manure).
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90 kg N₂ (Nitrogen).
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40 kg P₂O₅ (Phosphorus).
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30 kg K₂O (Potassium).
3. Morphological Characteristics:
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Medium plant height with dense green leaves.
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Semi-erect growth, making plants compact and easy to manage.
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Short first internode, improving plant structure and stability.
Special Features of Ajmer Fennel-2
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High Yield Potential: AF-2 has an average seed yield of 17.9 q/ha, which is 10.62% higher than RF-205 and 12.94% higher than RF-101.
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Disease Resistance: It is moderately resistant to Ramularia blight, a major fungal disease affecting fennel crops.
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Superior Essential Oil Content: AF-2 seeds contain 1.9% essential oil, 18.5% higher than RF-205 and 11.7% higher than RF-101.
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Enhanced Aroma and Medicinal Properties: The essential oil composition includes 57.5% Anethol + Estragole, contributing to its strong fragrance and therapeutic benefits.
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Adaptability: AF-2 performs well under timely sown conditions and is less susceptible to aphid infestations compared to other released varieties.
Nutritional Benefits of Ajmer Fennel-2 (AF-2)
Fennel is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it a valuable ingredient in both culinary and medicinal applications. Some key benefits of AF-2 include:
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High Essential Oil Content: Contains bioactive compounds like Anethol and Estragole, known for their anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
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Rich in Fiber: Supports gut health and digestion.
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Packed with Vitamins: Contains Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and B-complex vitamins, essential for immune function and metabolism.
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Mineral-rich: Provides potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron, supporting bone health and cardiovascular function.
Release and Recognition
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Developed at: ICAR-National Research Centre on Seed Spices (NRCSS), Ajmer, Rajasthan, India.
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Released and Notified by: Central Variety Release Committee (CVRC) (Notified vide S.O. 216 (E)16.01.2018)
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Recognized for: High yield, disease resistance, and superior essential oil content.
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Multi-location Trials: Conducted across 27 sites in India from 2010-2015, proving its adaptability and agronomic superiority.
Recommended Regions for Cultivation
Ajmer Fennel-2 is suitable for all fennel-growing regions in India, particularly:
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Rajasthan (major fennel-producing state).
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Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab.
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Semi-arid and temperate regions with well-drained soil.
Ajmer Fennel-2 (AF-2) is an excellent choice for farmers, offering higher yield, better disease resistance, and premium essential oil quality. Its ability to adapt to different climates and produce strong aromatic seeds makes it one of India’s best fennel varieties. Growing AF-2 can boost farmer profits and improve overall fennel production, ensuring better-quality harvests for culinary and medicinal uses.
