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Dill

Anethum graveolens

Herb

Dill is an airy, feathery annual herb that produces both edible foliage and seeds. Its yellow umbel flowers attract an enormous range of beneficial insects including parasitic wasps, hoverflies, and lacewings that control pest populations.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Low

Soil

Well-draining loam; pH 5.5–6.5

Spacing

12 inches

Days to Maturity

40–60 days to first leaf harvest; 90–110 days to seed

Growing Zones

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

Thrives in USDA Zones 3–11

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Keep Away From

When to Plant

  • Direct Sow

    After last frost; succession sow every 3–4 weeks

  • Harvest

    Harvest leaves young; harvest seeds when they begin to brown

Organic Growing Tips

  • Plant young dill near brassicas to attract beneficial insects, but keep mature dill away from carrots and tomatoes.

  • Allow dill to flower and self-seed freely — it will naturalise in the garden and provide continuous beneficial insect habitat.

  • Do not grow near fennel — they cross-pollinate readily and produce a bland hybrid flavour.

  • Grow dill near cucumbers to improve fruit flavour and deter cucumber beetles.

Common Pests

  • Aphids
  • Parsley Worm (Black Swallowtail larva)
  • Tomato Hornworm

All pest management in Garden uses safe, organic, non-toxic methods only. No synthetic pesticides, ever.