Dill Fernleaf is a compact variety that delivers all the flavor of traditional dill in a smaller, more manageable form. Perfect for patios, small gardens, or containers, this dwarf dill grows just 18 inches tall and is highly decorative. Its feathery foliage is ideal for seasoning fish, salads, and sauces, while its seeds are excellent for pickling. As a winner of the All-American Selection, Dill Fernleaf is a proven favorite for gardeners looking for convenience and quality.
Dill Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow dill seeds outdoors in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, or in late summer for a fall harvest. Dill thrives in cool weather and tolerates light frost.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining, fertile soil. Dill can grow in partial shade but performs best in full sun.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches and incorporate compost to improve fertility. Dill prefers soil with a pH of 5.5-7.0.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 10-12 inches apart in rows or clusters.
- Thin seedlings to maintain proper spacing once they are a few inches tall.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist until seeds germinate, which typically takes 7-14 days. Dill requires consistent moisture for optimal growth.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start dill seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, scattering them thinly over the soil surface.
- Cover lightly with soil and mist gently to keep the soil evenly moist.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 7-14 days.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and plants have at least 2-3 sets of true leaves. Space plants 10-12 inches apart.
General Care Tips for Dill
- Sunlight: Provide full sun for best growth. Dill tolerates partial shade but may grow spindly in low-light conditions.
- Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Dill benefits from regular watering during dry periods.
- Fertilizing: Enrich the soil with compost before planting. Dill is a light feeder and typically does not require additional fertilization during its growing season.
- Pruning: Regularly harvest leaves to encourage new growth. Remove flower stalks to delay seed production if growing dill for leaves.
- Pest and Disease Control: Dill is relatively pest- and disease-resistant. It attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and predatory wasps, which help control pests in the garden.
- Harvesting:
- For Leaves: Harvest fresh leaves as needed once the plant is 6-8 inches tall. Snip leaves near the stem base, leaving enough foliage for regrowth.
- For Seeds: Allow flower heads to mature and dry on the plant. Harvest seeds by cutting the flower stalks and shaking the seeds into a container.
- Storage: Store fresh dill leaves in a damp paper towel in the refrigerator for up to a week. Dry seeds and store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to a year.
