When to plant Fennel in the UK

Sow seeds thinly around mid-April to mid-May on a fine, raked seedbed, then cover with only a light dusting of soil. Keep the soil just moist during germination. Sow a fresh batch every 21 days for a longer picking period.

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 early May to mid-June.

Direct-sown fennel needs no transplanting. Once the seedlings are established, thin them to 30 cm apart in full sun and free-draining soil, and use a cloche or fleece if cold weather returns around mid-May to early July.

Keep plants evenly moist from mid-May to late October, 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.

Pick young leaves from mid-July and keep cutting little and often to encourage fresh growth. Leave some plants to flower for seed, then collect ripe heads through late October once they turn brown and dry.