Summary
Fennel , a versatile herb with culinary and medicinal properties , is a welcome addition to any garden . Its typical flavor and fragrance enhance both savory and sweet dishes , while its medicative benefits range from digestion backing to pain relief . Planting Florence fennel bulbs is a square mental process that canyield bountiful harvestsfor years to come in . Thiscomprehensive guidewill supply you with all the essential step and lead to successfully plant fennel bulbs .
Choosing the Right Fennel Variety
There are two main types of fennel : Florence fennel ( Foeniculum vulgarevar . azoricum ) and plebeian fennel ( Foeniculum vulgare ) . Florence fennel is prized for its large , comestible medulla , while common fennel is turn for itsfeathery foliageand aromatic seed . For lightbulb production , choose Florence fennel varietiessuch as ‘ Hannchen ’ or ‘ Zefa Fino ‘ . Thesevarieties produce large , white bulb with a sweet , anise - comparable savour .
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
finocchio prefers well - drained , fat soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 . Choose asunny locationwith at least 6 hours ofdirect sunlightper day . Amend the soil with plenty oforganic matter , such as compost or manure , toimprove fertilityand drainage . Fennel has adeep solution system , so dig the soil to a depth of 12 - 18 inch before planting .
Planting Fennel Bulbs
1 . Prepare the bulbs : Remove any damage orbruised outer layersfrom the finocchio bulbs.2 . Soak the light bulb ( optional ): rob the electric light inlukewarm waterfor 12 - 24 hours before planting can ameliorate germination.3 . Dig planting hollow : Dig holesthat are twice the width of the bulb and deep enough to continue the bulbs with 1 - 2 column inch of soil.4 . grade the bulb : Place the bulbs in the kettle of fish , pointy sideup . Space the bulbs 12 - 18 inches apart.5 . address the bulbs : Fill the holes with soil andgently firmit around the bulb . Water the plants deeply .
Watering and Fertilizing
Fennel requires regular tearing , specially during hot , dry weather . Water theplants deeplyand infrequently , allow the soil to dry out slightly between lachrymation . Fertilize finocchio plants lightly every few weeks with abalanced fertiliser . obviate over - fertilizing , as this can direct to excessive leafage growth and light electric-light bulb .
Mulching and Weed Control
Mulch around the fennel plant life withorganic matter , such as straw or compost , toretain moisture , suppress weeds , and regularise grunge temperature . Keep theplanting orbit freeof weeds , as they can compete withfennel plantsfor water and nutrient .
Pest and Disease Management
Fennel is by and large a low - maintenance plant , but it can be susceptible to sure pestis and disease . Common plague let in aphid , thrips , and slugs . Control these pests by usinginsecticidal soapor neem oil . Common disease admit powdery mildew and fennel rust . Prevent these diseases byproviding upright air circulationand nullify overhead watering .
Harvesting and Storage
Bulbs : Firenze fennel bulbsare quick to reap when they arrive at a diameter of 2 - 3 inches . Use asharp knifeto veer the bulbs at the base of the plant . Foliage : Common Florence fennel foliagecan be harvested throughout thegrowing time of year . Cut the leaves as needed and practice them sweet in salads , soups , or as a garnish . Seeds : Fennel seedsare ready to reap when they turn brown and dry . Cut theseed headsfrom the plant and allow them to dry out in a warm , well - ventilated country . Fennel bulb can be hive away in the icebox for up to 2 weeks . Fennel foliation and seeds can be put in in an airtight container in a coolheaded , wry placefor up to 6 month .
Companion Planting
Fennel is agood companion plantfor many other vegetables , including tomatoes , carrots , chou , and Brassica oleracea italica . Itattracts beneficial louse , such as ladybugs and lacewing , which assist control pesterer .
Medicinal Uses
Fennel has along historyof medicinal use . It is traditionally used to :
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : Can Igrow fennelfrom seed?A : Yes , you cangrow fennelfrom seed , but it is more common to plant life fennel bulbs . Growing fromseed requiresalonger produce seasonand more fear . Q : When should I constitute fennel bulbs?A : Plant Florence fennel bulbsinearly springor fall , when the filth is cool and moist . Q : How often should I water fennel plants?A : Water finocchio plants deeplyand infrequently , set aside the soil to dry out slightly between waterings . Q : What is the best way to store Florence fennel bulbs?A : Store fennel bulbsin the icebox for up to 2 weeks . Q : Can I usefennel leavesand seed in cooking?A : Yes , fennel leavesand seeds can be used in cookery . The leave have aslightly bitter flavorand can be used in salads , soup , and as a garnish . The source have a cherubic , anise - alike flavor and can be used in baking , spiciness blends , and afternoon tea .
