Fennel Garden Guide

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Fennel

Fennel Stat Summary

Plant Spacing: 6-12" (152-304 mm)
Row Spacing: 24" (609 mm)
Planting Depth: 1/4" (6 mm)
Plants Per Person: 4
Soil Temperature: 45-65°F (7-18°C)
Days to Emergence: 12-18
Recommended Soil PH: 7.0
Earliest Outdoor Planting: After Last Frost
Tick Can direct seed outdoors
Tick Can seed indoors

Planting Fennel

Prefers a sunny location in well drained rich soil with a neutral pH; add a general fertilizer or mulch prior to planting for better results. Direct sow seeds into garden 1/4 inch deep and 6-12 inches apart, rows should be 2 feet apart. To start seeds indoors sow in shallow furrows filled with potting soil; thin established seedlings; transplant into garden at 12 inches apart.

Growing Fennel

Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. In windy locations, stake plants.

Harvesting and Storing Fennel

Start harvesting fennel leaves as soon as they are large enough to use. When the bulbs reach 3 inches in diameter, pull them and store in the refrigerator. Collect fennel seeds after they become dry and brown, but before they fall from the flower.

Fennel Insect and Disease Information

Leaf hoppers and carrot rust flies feed on small plants; install floating row covers to help control.

Fennel Yield Information

Fennel self seeds; if you do not want additional plants, collect seeds after they become dry but before they fall from the flower.