The Seed Program
Growing Hints
This is one of the many growing hints that are available as a
bonus with a registered copy of The Seed Program.
Dill
Dill is a hardy annual or biennial herb that is versatile and
easy to grow. The leaves are popular in many dishes, especially
soups and salad dressings, and the seeds are frequently used when
making pickles. For the health conscious, fresh dill can be added
directly to salads as a fat free and flavorful alternative to
dressings. Dill does not transplant well, so it should be planted
directly where it is to grow in the vegetable or herb garden.
If seeds are desired from the plant, it is important to start
it in early spring. The delicate plant is sometimes damaged by
strong winds, so a somewhat sheltered location is best. Dill does
not compete well with weeds, so it is important keep it weeded
(gently) or place a mulch around it when it is a few inches high.
Some varieties of dill are larger than others, so it is worth
checking the seed packet to see if specific spacing instructions
are included.
You may begin harvesting a few leaves when the plant is about
six inches tall. The small yellow flowers that appear on dill
plants will attract some beneficial insects to the garden, such
as tiny parasitic wasps that destroy some garden pests (but do
not harm people). The tiny seeds are easily lost, so it is best
to cut off the seed heads when the seeds have just started to
ripen, and place them loosely in a paper bag until they dry completely.
Store the seeds in a tightly sealed container to protect them
from moisture.
For more crops, more complete gardening information, a garden
journal and a planting schedule you can customize for your region,
purchase The Seed Program!
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