My Garden
fennel
Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel is a perennial herb with feathery leaves and a bulbous base. It has a licorice-like flavor and is used in culinary and medicinal applications. Fennel attracts beneficial insects to the garden.
| Category | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Plant Type | Perennial plant | |
| Culinary Usage | Edible plant | |
| Medicinal Usage | Medicinal Usage | |
| Duration to maturity | 4 months to harvest | |
| Estimated Plant Lifespan | 3 years lifespan | |
| Sun Requirements | 6+ hours direct sunlight (Full Sun) | |
| Pollination | Method: Animal Notes: Fennel is primarily pollinated by insects, especially bees and other pollinators. | |
| Watering Requirements | Method: Water at the base of the plant. Frequency: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Notes: Fennel prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate some drought. | |
| Humidity Requirements | Level: Moderate Maintenance: Provide good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. | |
| Cleaning Requirements | Remove yellowed or dead leaves to promote air circulation and prevent disease. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. | |
| Temperature Range | Min: -5°C Max: 30°C |
Sweet basil
Ocimum basilicum
Basil repels some pests and is said to improve fennel's flavor.
wild carrot
Daucus carota
Fennel can cross-pollinate with carrots, potentially affecting carrot flavor and quality.
Flea Beetles
Small jumping beetles that chew small holes in the leaves.
Steps:
- Sow seeds directly into the garden in spring or fall.
- Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and 12-18 inches apart.
- Keep soil moist until germination.
- Thin seedlings to desired spacing.
Neem Oil
Effective for controlling aphids and other pests.
Diatomaceous Earth
Can be used to control aphids and flea beetles.