Fennel
Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel is a hardy herb grown for its feathery foliage and aniseed-flavoured seeds, and sometimes for crisp bulbs in specialist varieties. In UK gardens it does best in full sun, in fertile, free-draining soil, and it dislikes being moved once established.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Fennel
Planting Calendar
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Sow Seeds
every 3 weeksSow seeds thinly around on the surface of fine seed compost, then cover with a light dusting at most. Keep the compost just moist while they germinate, and sow a fresh batch every 21 days if you want a longer picking period.
Thin Seedlings
When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them so each plant has room to make a strong root. Keep the best seedlings and remove the rest cleanly to avoid crowding from to .
Plant Out
Move seedlings to their final position once the roots have filled the modules, then water in thoroughly straight away. Space them apart in full sun and free-draining soil, and use a cloche or fleece if cold weather returns around .
Water and Pinch Out
Keep plants evenly moist from to , especially in dry spells, but do not leave the soil soggy. Pinch out the growing tips regularly so the plants stay bushy and are less likely to bolt.
Harvest Foliage and Seed
Pick young leaves from and keep cutting little and often to encourage more growth. Let some plants flower if you want seed, then collect the ripe heads from to once they turn brown and dry.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Fennel.
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Fennel to consider
Purpureum
A bronze-leaved fennel grown for foliage colour and ornamental value as well as flavour.
Giant Bronze
A tall, bronze selection with feathery leaves and good garden presence.
Sweet Fennel
A reliable green fennel type grown for leaves and seed in the herb garden.
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