Foeniculum vulgare

Cultivation

Grow it from seedlings or sow directly outside.

Distance between plants

At least 40 cm (15 in) between rows and at least 30 cm (12 in) between the plants in a row.

Location

Sunny.

Amount

1 to 2 plants per person.

Time of planting

End of May for seedlings and June directly outside. It germinates in 10 to 16 days.

Fertilization

With home compost or wood ash. In growth stage with nettle or comfrey brew.

Watering

Water in drought to keep enough moisture. Use organic mulch.

Florence fennel’s good neighbors

Peas, cucumbers, sweet corn, lettuce, mint.

Florence fennel’s bad neighbors

Beans, tomato, parsnip, parsley, cumin, lovage.

Diseases and pests

Wireworms, carrot fly.

Florence fennel’s storage

Leaves and tubers regularly when needed. Roots can be left in the soil and they shoot a few more sprouts.

Food

The whole plant is useful. Grate fresh tuber for salads or soups. The leaves, flowers and seeds serve as a spice or tea.

Important

The soil has to be soil and moist enough. If it is sown too early, it flowers. The seedlings are cultivated at 20-25 °C (68-77 °F). To get white tubers, wrap with cardboard during the swelling process.

Miscellaneous

It is a part of the carrot family, related to carrots and many herbs. Its essential oil disinfects the digestive system.