Dill
Fernleaf Dill
Fernleaf Dill has aromatic, feathery, deep green foliage. It will grow to a height of 12" to 24" tall and 12" to 18" wide. In summer, yellow umbrella like flowers will appear and set seed. As the summer progresses, the seed will mature and turn a dark brown. If you are harvesting the seeds, cut the heads off once they are brown, fasten a paper bag over the flower heads and hang them upside down so that the seeds fall into the bag. Provide circulation by poking holes in the bag. Store the seeds in a tightly closed container for up to a year in a cool, dark location.
When in bloom, the flowers attract many beneficial insects to the garden including bees, butterflies and parasitic wasps. You can even use this herb incorporated into a perennial border. If you are wishing to harvest the leaves, harvest dill leaves when flowers begin to appear on the plant. Cut stems back to 2 inches above the ground. For the best flavor, use the herb immediately. Place dill sprigs into plastic bags and put the bags in the freezer to preserve the flavor. To dry the leaves, hang dill upside down in a warm location away from sunlight. 4" $4.99 |