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Fennel

Foeniculum vulgare / var dulce

INTRODUCTION

A herb that has been in regular use for culinary and medicinal purposes since the Greeks and Romans.

Growing wild in many parts of Europe, its green or brown foliage is a useful addition to many fish dishes. Some varieties are grown for the white bulbous base (Florence Fennel) rather than the foliage. All parts of the plant have a delicate aniseed flavour.

Fennel is a hardy perennial and will spread if allowed to set seed.

Soil Preparation

Fennel can be grown in pots, but improved harvests will be obtained when grown on the plot. Florence fennel is not suited to containerised culture.

Fennel has a large root system and containing it in a pot may cause the crop to bolt.

Fennel is a relatively straightforward crop to grow but good soil preparation is essential for the best results.

The growing site should be in a sunny position with organic material added well in advance of sowing.

The ground should be light, fertile, free-draining and stone free. 

Sowing & Planting

Fennel can be sown from spring until late summer.

The seed should be sown directly into the growing position. Germination will take between 10-14 days.

You may find that if left to flower, fennel will self-seed and produce new plants the following season which can be transplanted.

Seed can also be sown in pots or modules for planting out if you prefer.

Growing & General Cultivation

Fennel is an undemanding crop to grow. Keep weed free and don't allow it to set seed unless you require new plants next season.

Feeding should not be necessary.

Cut crops to the ground in autumn as the foliage starts to die down.

Pests & Diseases

Fennel should remain pest and disease free. 

Slugs and Snails may be a problem for seedlings and young plants. For remedies - see product directory.

Harvesting

Cut foliage as required. For the best results, always use fresh fennel if possible.

Fennel can be frozen and can be dried for later use.

In autumn, seeds can be harvested for use in the kitchen.

For Florence fennel, dig bulbs as required as soon as they have reached a sufficiently mature size.

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