How to Grow Common or Sweet Fennel

Seed starting indoors: Fennel grows a taproot and is best sown in place. If started indoors, plant in individual peat pots so that taproots are not disturbed at transplanting. Sow seed indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Transplanting to the garden: Set fennel in the garden after the last frost in spring.

What is the difference between fennel and sweet fennel?
Can you plant store bought fennel?
Where does fennel grow best?
Are there two types of fennel?
Is fennel poisonous to humans?
How much of the fennel can you eat?
Does fennel regrow after cutting?
Does fennel come back every year?
Why did my fennel not form a bulb?
Does fennel need a lot of water?
What can I plant next to fennel?
Is fennel easy to grow?

What is the difference between fennel and sweet fennel?

There are two main varieties of Fennel. One, developed mainly for production of Fennel seeds, is called Sweet Fennel (“Foeniculum vulgare var dulce”); the other, developed for eating in its own right, is called Florence Fennel (“Foeniculum vulgare var. ... Choose Fennel that is firm with fresh tops.

Can you plant store bought fennel?

Absolutely! When you buy fennel from the store, the bottom of the bulb should have a noticeable base to it – this is where the roots grew from. When you cut up your fennel to cook with, leave this base and just a little bit of the attached bulb intact. Regrowing fennel plants is very easy.

Where does fennel grow best?

Fennel benefits from a rich, well-drained soil, with a pH of 5.5-6.8. Plant in a sunny spot for best results. Bear in mind that fennel is a Mediterranean crop, a cool-weather short-lived perennial normally grown as an annual.

Are there two types of fennel?

There are two types of fennel. One is treated as an herb (herb fennel – Foeniculum vulgare) and one that is treated like a bulb type vegetable (Florence fennel or Finocchio – Foeniculum vulgare var. dulce). The herb type grows 3-5 feet tall with fine textured foliage resembling dill.

Is fennel poisonous to humans?

Fennel may cause sun poisoning, skin reactions, and cross reactions. The oil may cause hallucinations and seizures. Premature breast development in girls has been reported with the use of fennel. Poison hemlock may be mistaken for fennel.

How much of the fennel can you eat?

All parts of the fennel plant—bulb, stalk, and the feathery fronds—are edible, and will add texture and flavor to salads, slaws, pastas, and more. Thinly sliced raw fennel bulb adds a sweet licorice flavor and crunchy texture to salads.

Does fennel regrow after cutting?

It propagates well from seed. ... If you are growing fennel for seeds, the plant will bloom in the second year because it is a perennial. The plant can be cut back after flowering to encourage new, bushy growth.

Does fennel come back every year?

Fennel, Foeniculum vulgare, is a short-lived perennial with some types hardy in zones 4-9 but is often grown as an annual in cooler climates. Native to southern Europe along the Mediterranean Sea, this plant in the carrot family (Apiaceae) has sweetly aromatic foliage and flavor similar to anise.

Why did my fennel not form a bulb?

So, the most likely reason for no bulb on fennel is that you have planted the wrong type. You can still use the lower stalks, the leaves and seeds, which will have a somewhat mellower but still delightful flavor than the bulb. Another reason for fennel with no bulb is planting too late.

Does fennel need a lot of water?

Once established, fennel herb doesn't need much care. It prefers acid soil, appreciates the occasional dose of mild fertilizer and a little additional water if the weather is hot and dry.

What can I plant next to fennel?

Fennel. Fennel is a poor companion plant for most herbs and vegetables. While it can grow near dill, the two plants tend to cross-pollinate. As a result, it's usually best to grow fennel separately; keeping it in a container avoids any possible negative outcomes.

Is fennel easy to grow?

Fennel is easy to grow. They prefer full sun and a well drained soil. ... Also called Florence Fennel or Finuccio, it is easy to grow and very hardy, lasting well after the first frost. With bright green, fern-like leaves and aromatic yellow flowers, this plant will grow three to four feet tall.