A guide to growing fennel in your garden. Includes sun requirements, when to plant, feeding and troubleshooting notes for this sweet licorice tasting vegetable.
Soil
What soil is good for Fennel?
Rich, well draining soil with plenty of compost mixed in.
Position
How much sun does Fennel need?
Full sun
Frost Tolerant
Is Fennel frost tolerant?
Will tolerate light frosts, however seedlings are frost sensitive.
Spacing
How much space does Fennel need?
Roughly 30cm apart
Planting
When should I plant Fennel?
Fennel is a cool season crop that grows best in temperatures between 21- 24°C (70–75°F), however seeds will germinate at temperatures between 15-20°C (59°F).
Fennel is usually planted in late summer, early autumn and early spring.
When transplanting seedlings, plant out in the early morning or evening and/or on an overcast day. Avoid planting at peak sun times or on windy days, this will allow your plants to settle in comfortably and protect them from windburn and sunburn.
Feeding
What do I feed Fennel?
Use an organic fertiliser throughout the season.
Harvesting
When can I harvest Fennel?
Harvest when bulbs are 3-4 inches in diameter, larger bulbs become tough and hard to eat.
Pests
What pests does Fennel get?
Aphids, Slug, Snail, Cutworm, Root Knot Nematode
Diseases
What diseases does Fennel get?
Blight, Leaf Spot, Damping Off, Fusarium Wilt, Powdery Mildew, Downy Mildew, Collar Rot, Root Rot
Notes
Is there anything else I need to know about Fennel?
Fennel is a short lived perennial plant, however is commonly grown as an annual.
Water regularly and mulch well to prevent the soil from drying out.
Cool Season Crops
Perennial
Frost Tolerant