
FENNEL - FOENICULUM VULGARE
Days to germination: 7 to 14 days
Days to harvest: 80 to 90 days
Light requirements: Full sun
Water requirements: Regular watering
Soil: Loose and well-drained soil
Container: Not ideal for container gardening, but possible
Fennel is a multi-purpose plant for your garden that will provide you with aromatic seeds for seasoning as well as a thick bulb for a vegetable. You can even eat the thicker stalks, like celery. The fine leaves can be snipped off and also used as an herb. The seeds have a licorice-like flavor very similar to anise, as do the other parts of the plant (those not as strongly as the seeds).
Fennel doesnt transplant well, so you can just sow your seeds straight out into the garden in the late spring after the frost threat has passed. Since your plants will come back each year, plan for a somewhat permanent location for your fennel.
Before you plant, dig the soil to loosen it up and add some compost for extra nutrients. For heavy or clay soils, add in some sand for extra drainage.
Seeds only need to be lightly covered by soil, and should be kept frequently watered until they sprout their first few leaves. Space your seeds out around 20mm apart. You might want to plant a few more than you need, and thin them down after they have sprouted.
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