Planting advice for the USA & Canada, Zone 8a

January: Do not grow.

February: Start undercover in seed trays.

March: Transplant 4-6 week old seedlings.

April: Plant seed directly into garden.

May: Do not grow.

June: Do not grow.

July: Do not grow.

August: Plant seed directly into garden.

September: Do not grow.

October: Do not grow.

November: Do not grow.

December: Do not grow.

Space Plants: 15cm (6") apart.

Harvest In: 8-12 weeks.

Grows Best With: Arugula, Asparagus, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Collard Greens, Corn, Cucumbers, Fennel, Kale.

Avoid Growing With: Carrots, Parsnips.

Planting Dill

Dill grows a deep taproot, and is not suited for transplanting. Dill is a warm-weather crop and should be planted in the garden once the risk of frost has passed. Plant seeds 0.5cm (1/4") deep, 5cm (2") apart with 20cm (8") between rows. Dill prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter, and thrives in full sun. Plants can grow quite tall, so avoid areas exposed to strong winds.

Growing Dill

2 weeks after seedlings emerge, thin them to allow 15cm (6") between each plants. Keep the soil moist but not wet, and fertilise with a nitrogen-rich fertiliser once every 2-3 weeks to encourage strong leaf growth.

Harvesting Dill

Thinned seedlings have plenty of flavour, and can be used in cooking. Once dill has 4-5 leaves it can be harvested by pinching or cutting the leaves. Harvest the older leaves first to encourage more new growth. To harvest seeds, remove the flower stalk right as the seeds begin to change to a tan colour. Hang the stalk upside-down in a warm area with good ventilation, then attach a small paper bag to the stalk with several holes in the side for ventilation. As the seeds mature they will fall and collect in the seed bag.

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