Fennel (Herb) Growing Guide

Fennel (Herb)

Crop Rotation Group

Umbelliferae (Carrot and root family) 


Fertile, well drained soil.


A sunny spot where fennel’s tall branches will not cause unwanted shade.

Frost tolerant

A short-lived hardy perennial, fennel will survive winter temperatures to -17C (0F).


Not usually required.


Cosmos. Cucumber, squash, melons, pumpkin and other low, vining plants.



Sow and Plant

Start seeds indoors in early spring, or plant them outdoors while the weather is still cool.


Fennel flowers attract numerous small beneficial insects.


Gather fennel fronds as you need them in the kitchen. Fennel can reseed to the point of weediness. Gathering and using the blooms as cut flowers will prevent excessive reseeding.


Prune back fennel plants in mid autumn, before cold weather turns the plants to mush.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Fennel (Herb)