You’re here because you want to grow your own fennel. Well, fennel practically grows itself. You get two for the price of one with fennel, because both the bulb and the fronds are edible. And you’ll be attracting pollinators which supports biodiversity. We all benefit from bees and butterflies in our lives.
Fennel needs 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Indoors: Not suitable for indoor growing; best grown outdoors in pots or garden beds.
Keep soil consistently moist. Water regularly, especially in full sun conditions. Mulching helps retain moisture.
Fennel is a cool weather crop and loves 50-75°F, ideally 60-70°F. Plant outdoors in March-May and August-September in NYC zone 7b. Cool weather enhances bulb formation.
Indoors: Not ideal; Outdoors: 12-14" wide, 12-14" deep, 5 gallons
Fennel prefers rich, well-draining potting soil with organic compost and/or cow manure.
Apply balanced fertilizer 10-10-10 every 3-4 weeks. Organic options: compost, fish emulsion, bone meal. Regular feeding ensures robust growth and flavorful bulbs.
Fennel is ready for harvest 80-100 days after planting, or when the bulbs are 3-4 inches in diameter. A complete life cycle usually lasts 3 to 4 months or when the first frost arrives, mid-November in NYC.
Harvest outer stems and leaves regularly. Frequent harvesting promotes continuous growth, ensuring a supply of aromatic, anise-flavored stalks.
Yellow Leaves: Ensure good drainage. Bolting: Plant in cooler weather. Pests (Aphids): Spray with soapy water or release green lacewing larvae. Slow Growth: Use balanced fertilizer. Diseases (Powdery Mildew): Improve air circulation.
There are around 10-15 varieties of arugula gardeners commonly grow. One of the perks of growing arugula at home is the opportunity to experiment with different varieties that you won't find at the grocery store.
Do you have any questions or requests? I'm here to help!