Fennel

Foeniculum vulgare

Days to Maturity: 65

Fennel is an aromatic seed and leafy herb as well as an exceptionally flavorful root for soups, fish, eggs and gourmet recipes. A perennial that keeps producing for 3-4 years before needing to be re-planted, fennel will become a welcome mainstay in your garden. Southwest adapted.

Planting Instructions: Sow fennel seed outdoors in spring after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed a bit. Plant 1/2" deep, 12" apart and keep moist until germinated. Grows to up to 6 feet tall, so thin if needed as plants mature by harvesting where too dense.

Seed Saving Instructions: Plants may bolt and form seed either in 1st or 2nd year. Collect seed when fully brown, dry and crumbling. Store seeds in a paper or mesh bag in a cool, dark and dry location.