Dill has been used as an aromatic herb for thousands of years. Either the herb itself or the dill seed can be used in cooking and natural medicine.
How do I plant dill correctly?
To plant dill successfully, choose a sunny to partially shaded location and loose, not too heavy soil. Sow the dill directly into the bed or deep pots, ideally between mid-April and the end of August. Maintain 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 centimeters) between rows and avoid transplanting.
How do dill plants grow?
Dill grows as an annual plant that reproduces in nature by self-sowing for the next vegetation phase. The herb grows up to one meter high and is known for its characteristic appearance with particularly delicate leaf shapes. After the attractive yellow flowers, the dill seeds form on the umbels, which can also be harvested and dried for use in the kitchen or natural medicine.
Which location does dill prefer?
Dill is generally relatively undemanding and thrives in many different locations. However, it has a positive effect on growth if it is in a location that is as full of sun or as partially shaded as possible. Dill develops particularly well if the location is somewhat sheltered so that wind and hail cannot harm the sensitive plants.
How should you go about sowing dill?
Dill is ideally sown directly in the bed outdoors or in deep pots for the balcony, as it is difficult to transplant. Make sure to use dill seeds that are no more than two years old, as their germination ability decreases rapidly after this period.
When is the best time to sow dill?
In order to plant dill correctly, you should know how you plan to use the plant later. In general, you can grow dill from around mid-April when night frosts no longer occur. If you want to harvest ripe dill seeds, planting must be done no later than the end of June. If you sow later until the end of August, you can still cut the dill weed and use it for a stock for pickling gherkins.
Can you transplant dill?
The dill tolerates transplanting very poorly, which is why it should always be sown on the spot if possible.
How is dill propagated?
Dill is propagated exclusively by sowing seeds. In a suitable location, self-sowing is often carried out, so that dill can be harvested for years without much care.
Which soil does dill prefer?
The dill prefers a loose and not too heavy soil as it does not tolerate waterlogging well. Otherwise it is relatively undemanding in terms of the exact composition of the substrate.
At what distance should dill be sown?
When sowing in rows, you should leave a distance of around 15 to 25 centimeters between the rows.
Which other plants can dill be planted next to?
When growing dill, you should avoid sowing it next to other cruciferous vegetables. However, it is quite possible to grow cucumbers, lettuce, onions and carrots.
Tips & Tricks
Since dill is a natural defense against aphids and cabbage whites, you can easily grow it in a bed with onions, carrots and lettuce.