did you know?

Fennel has a long history as both a medicinal and culinary herb, but one of its most interesting uses was as a charm against supernatural intruders. In medieval times, it was hung on doors on midsummer's eve to ward off evil spirits, and its seeds were put in keyholes to prevent ghosts from entering.

general maintenance:

To prevent self-sowing, deadhead flowers before they mature, or collect some seeds for future sowing.

pests/diseases:

Aphids, slugs, and stem and root rot may occur.

controls:

For stem and root rot, reduce soil moisture, and remove severely diseased plants. Regularly hose off aphids with a directed stream of water or apply insecticidal soap, following package directions. Handpick slugs from foliage or apply diatomaceous earth.

how to sow/plant:

Begin with new plants or start seed indoors 3 to 4 weeks before last frost. Sow 1/4 inch deep and 4 to 6 inches apart. Harden off seedlings and transplant after last frost, when weather has settled. Or direct sow after last frost, and thin to 1 foot apart after true leaves appear.

water and fertilize:

Allow soil to dry between waterings. No supplemental fertilization is required.

garden hint:

If you spot green, black-striped caterpillars eating your fennel, dill, or parsley, let them be -- they will eventually become swallowtail butterflies.

features:

• Drought Tolerant
• Fragrant

garden uses:

• Containers
• Flowerbed borders

other uses:

• Dye
• Medicinal

combine with:

beebalm, feverfew, foxglove, sage, and yarrow, for a flowering herb or border garden.