Dill is an aromatic herb that’s perfect for adding fresh flavor to your kitchen and beauty to your garden. It’s easy to grow and thrives both in garden beds and containers.
Why Grow Dill?
- Essential for pickling and seasoning dishes
- Attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and butterflies
- Easy to grow from seed
- Grows quickly with minimal maintenance
Best Types of Dill to Grow
- Bouquet Dill: Great for pickling and fresh use.
- Mammoth Dill: Taller plants, excellent for gardens.
- Fernleaf Dill: Compact, perfect for containers and small gardens.
How to Plant Dill
1. Choose a Sunny Spot
Dill loves full sun — aim for at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
2. Prepare the Soil
- Light, well-draining soil enriched with compost.
- Slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
3. Planting Tips
- Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost.
- Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and about 18 inches apart.
- Thin seedlings to 12–18 inches apart once they are a few inches tall.
4. Watering
- Keep soil evenly moist during germination.
- Once established, dill is relatively drought-tolerant.
Caring for Dill
- Fertilizer: Minimal — dill prefers slightly lean soil.
- Support: Taller varieties may need staking to prevent flopping.
- Deadhead: Remove spent flowers to encourage more leaf production if you don’t want seeds.
Harvesting Dill
- Harvest leaves once plants are 8 inches tall.
- Snip leaves as needed; regular harvesting encourages new growth.
- Harvest seeds after flower heads turn brown and dry.
Final Thoughts
Dill is a fragrant, flavorful herb that’s easy to grow and perfect for any home gardener. Whether you’re seasoning dishes, pickling cucumbers, or attracting pollinators, dill is a delightful addition to your garden!