Dill Growing Guide

All you need to know to grow successfully!

Plant Family:
Apiaceae
Plant Type:
Perennial

Square Foot Spacing:

9
Typical Season:
Season Typical
Typical Zones Grown In:
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Growing Difficulty:
Easy

Dill is an annual herb that is commonly used in cooking and pickling. It has a distinctive flavour and aroma that is often described as tangy, sweet, and slightly bitter. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and produces feathery, fern-like leaves and small yellow or white flowers. Dill is a popular herb for flavouring fish, salads, and vegetables, and is also used to make pickles. It is easy to grow in gardens and containers, and is often used as a companion plant to repel pests and attract beneficial insects. Dill prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, and should be watered regularly.

How to Grow Dill Organically

Here are the steps to grow dill:

  1. Choose the right time: Dill is an annual herb that prefers warm weather. It’s recommended to plant dill in the spring after the last frost date.
  2. Select a location: Dill prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 to 6.5. Choose a location with full sun or partial shade.
  3. Prepare the soil: Loosen the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches and remove any rocks or debris. Add compost or aged manure to the soil to improve soil fertility and drainage.
  4. Plant the seeds: Dill is usually grown from seeds. Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 18-24 inches apart.
  5. Water the plants: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather.
  6. Fertilize the plants: Dill does not need a lot of fertilizer. You can add a light application of organic fertilizer, such as compost or fish emulsion, once or twice during the growing season.
  7. Control pests and diseases: Dill is generally pest and disease-free, but it can attract aphids and spider mites. Use organic methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap to control pests.
  8. Harvest the leaves and seeds: Dill leaves can be harvested when the plant is 12-18 inches tall. Cut the leaves from the stem and use them fresh in your favourite dishes. You can also harvest the entire plant when it starts to flower and use the seeds in cooking.

Following these steps will help you grow dill successfully and enjoy its unique, tangy flavour in your culinary creations.

Planting Guidelines

The following are general guides to follow. However, nothing is set in stone. Feel free to experiment!

How to Start:
When to Direct Sow:
April, May
When to Start Indoors:
January, March, February, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
Sprouting Time:
10-21 days

Ideal Temperature (C):

15-21°C
Depth:
5mm (¼”) deep
Spacing (cm):
15cm (6″)
Row Spacing (cm):
45cm (18″)
Sun Exposure:
Part Shade, Full Sun
Maturity Time:
about 90 days
When To Harvest:
May, June, July, August, September, October
How to Harvest:
Using a pair of scissors, snip the stems of the leaves, right where they meet the growth point on the main stem. You can do this by hand as well, by pinching the stems off, especially if the plant's stems are young and tender.

Health Benefits

Growing your own food is one of the best things you can do for your health. Let’s check out some of the health benefits!

Is It Edible?
Yes
Edible Parts:
Whole plant (including seeds)
Potential Health Benefits:
Fights Diabetes, Heart Health, Antioxidant, Cancer Fighting , Menstrual cramps, Bone Strength

Tips to Growing Organically

Growing without the use of pesticides and herbicides is easier than you may think and it’s better for the environment!

Companion Plants:
asparagus, Corn, Basil, cucumbers, Onion, Lettuce, Mustard
What Plants to Avoid:
Pepper, Eggplant, Carrot
Common Pests:
Dill, caterpillars
Common Disease:
Bonus Grow Tips:
Plant your dill near brassicas to keep cabbage moths away. Dill is one of the best pest defences in the garden.

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