I’m constantly trying to grow new plants. This season fennel has found it’s way into my garden. It will be grown in a container as I’ve read it can get away from you fairly easily. If we like it enough I may let it run wild just to see what happens, we are working on having a food forest after all. Below is what I’ve found on growing it so I’m sharing it with you. I hope it is helpful.
If you’ve grow fennel please share your experience, good or bad. As always feedback is always welcome!
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Let’s delve into growing fennel. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a budding green thumb, this licorice-flavored herb and vegetable can add a touch of magic to your garden and kitchen. Here’s your comprehensive guide to planting, caring for, and harvesting fennel:
Growing Fennel: The Complete Guide
1. Fennel Varieties
Before you embark on your fennel-growing journey, let’s explore the different varieties:
- Bronze Fennel: An ornamental variety cherished for its fronds and seeds.
- Florence Fennel: The one to choose if you crave a meaty bulb for cooking.
- Rhondo Fennel: A bulb-type fennel that produces a round bulb and matures early.
- Cantino Fennel: Slow to go to seed.
- Preludio: An F1 hybrid that yields large, round bulbs.
2. Planting Fennel
- Growing Zones: Fennel thrives in USDA Growing Zones 5-10. While it’s perennial in Zones above 6, most gardeners treat it as an annual due to its short lifespan in the garden.
- Soil and Sun: Fennel prefers well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 5.5-6.8. Plant it in an area that receives full sun.
- Direct Sowing: Sow fennel seeds directly in the early spring once the soil has warmed. Fennel dislikes transplanting, so direct sowing is ideal. Don’t fret about a touch of frost; fennel can handle it.
- Indoor Starting: If you choose to start fennel indoors, do so 2-3 weeks before the last frost date in your region or 90-110 days before the first fall frost. Transplant seedlings when they have two true leaves.
3. Caring for Fennel
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Weeding: Regular weeding ensures fennel’s well-being.
- Fertilizing: A light application of balanced fertilizer during the growing season suffices.
- Pruning: Trim any yellowing or damaged fronds.
- Common Problems:
- Caterpillars: Keep an eye out for these voracious eaters.
- Aphids: Combat them with natural remedies.
- Downy Mildew: Proper spacing and good air circulation help prevent it.
- Powdery Mildew: Maintain dry foliage.
- Bulbs Not Forming: Ensure consistent moisture and proper spacing.
- Companion Planting: Fennel enjoys the company of dill, chamomile, and marigolds.
4. Harvesting and Cooking
- Harvesting: Harvest fennel bulbs when they reach a desirable size (usually around 3-4 inches in diameter). Snip off the base of the bulb.
- Cooking with Fennel: Roast it, sauté it, or add it to salads. The bulb’s sweet, anise-like flavor pairs beautifully with fish, poultry, and vegetables.
Remember, fennel isn’t just a garden plant; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to unfold. Happy fennel-growing! 🌱🌞
Sources:
Slocum's Creak 