Summer Fennel Care Sheet

Introduction

Fennel, a Mediterranean basin native, has been cultivated for millennia for its distinctive aniseed flavour. A versatile vegetable, fennel's roots, leaves and seeds are all edible. With its rich nutrients and distinct flavour, it's a valuable addition to any summer garden.

Growing Requirements

Climate: Fennel thrives in a sunny, temperate climate, with good drainage. It's suited to regions with moderate winters and hot summers.

Soil: Fennel prefers rich, fresh soil high in humus and well-drained. Avoid soil with many stones.

Exposure: Full sun is ideal for fennel.

Plantation

Timing: Plant outdoors after the last spring frost; from April to June or mid-July to August.

Soil Preparation: Prepare soil by loosening and adding compost or manure for extra richness.

Seeding: Direct seed outdoors, or start indoors 4 weeks prior to the last frost. Space seeds 10" (25cm) apart, covering with a thin layer of soil (1/8" or 0.3cm).

Transplanting: For outdoor plants, once seedlings reach 3-4" (7.6-10.2cm), transfer them to the garden, spacing them 20" (50cm) apart. Fennel doesn't transplant well, so it's best to plant seeds directly outdoors if possible.

Care

Watering: Fennel requires regular watering, especially in hot weather. However, avoid overwatering as this may rot the roots.

Fertiliser: No fertilising is needed during the growing season.

Mulching: After the bulbs begin to form, cover them with soil to shade them and keep them white and sweet.

Pests and Diseases: Fennel has few pests or diseases. Occasionally, it may attract aphids or whiteflies – pyrethrin-based insecticidal soap will get rid of them.

Winter Protection

Fennel is hardy and can survive light frosts; however, it doesn't tolerate heavy freezes. In colder regions, it's best to harvest fennel before the first frost and store it indoors. For plants left outside, apply a thick mulch around the base to help protect the roots from freezing.

Harvest and Storage

Harvesting: Fennel leaves can be harvested once the plant is established, but don't remove too many at once. Bulbs are ready for harvest when they reach the size of a small tennis ball, usually in late summer or early autumn.

Storage: Fresh fennel bulbs can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. They can also be preserved by freezing, drying, or pickling. Store seeds in a cool, dark place in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

Conclusion

Fennel is a relatively low-maintenance vegetable with a distinctive flavour that's perfect for summer recipes. Provide it with ample sun and water, and it will reward you with delicious bulbs and leaves. With proper care, it can even survive mild winters, meaning a continuous supply of fennel is possible in most regions.