Dill Propagation Methods Dill Propagation Methods

Dill, a very popular spice in kitchens in many households, is synonymous with pickles and treatment of conditions ranging from colic in children and flatulence in adults. Dill can grow under most weather conditions year round. Seed propagation is not very difficult. Its flowers produce many seeds which can be used for a long time, even after being separated from the flowers.

Propagating Herbs and Dill Seeds

There are two steps involved in propagating dill seeds, just like propagating herbs.

    1. Collecting the seeds or cutting a portion of a pre-existing plant
    2. Sowing it

      Before propagating dill seeds, it's important to understand how to prepare dill seeds for propagation.

      • You must wait for the right time to harvest the dill plant. The right time would be when it has turned dry and greenish brown at the tops.
      • Cut the stalk of the plant and slowly lower its head into a paper bag. You must take care when doing this, as the seeds are delicate and can get damaged.
      • Tie the mouth of the bag with a part of the stalk hanging out of it and let it dry.
      • When the stalk is dry enough, shake the bag gently but vigorously to collect the dill seeds.

      This method of harvesting will ensure that you have plenty of dill seeds to propagate.

      Propagation of Dill

      Dill can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Growing dill indoors requires regular trimming and a sunny windowsill. You can also grow dill in a greenhouse.

      To grow dill outdoors, you will need plenty of direct sunlight, a seasonal dose of general purpose fertilizer and well drained soil. It will survive in average soil quality and in dry conditions as well. The seeds should be sown shallow, about 3mm to 5mm deep, as the sunlight will enhance germination.  

      You can plant your dill seeds directly in the mud as long as you keep them well watered and protected from wind.

      The direct propagation of seeds is better than the transplant method. However, you can use the transplant method of growing dill by using the leaves.

      Keep a distance of about 12 inches while sowing or propagating dill. Do not sow dill with fennel seeds, as cross pollination will reduce the flavor of both spices.

      The approximate time for seed germination while harvesting seeds through propagation is 21 to 25 days, with an average of 70 days to mature.

      You can have a year round supply of dill if you schedule the propagation accordingly.

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