Fernleaf Dill

‘Fernleaf’ is a compact, slow-bolting dill grown for aromatic, finely divided foliage and culinary leaves and seeds. Its shorter habit and delayed flowering extend the foliage harvest compared with standard dill, making it useful in herb beds and patio containers. ## Cultivar and use The [PanAmerican Seed grower sheet](https://www.panamseed.com/utility/CultureSheetPDF.aspx?pagename=culture.aspx&txtphid=023200001001824&type=Veg) describes this exact cultivar as dwarf and compact, with 12–15 inch height and 10–12 inch spread, late flowering, and a long harvest season. [University of Wisconsin–Madison Extension](https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/dill-anethum-graveolens/) independently calls ‘Fernleaf’ a compact, slow-bolting cultivar with extra-feathery foliage that grows about 18 inches tall. It is an annual herb, not a winter-hardy perennial; its leaves are used fresh and its mature flowers produce aromatic seeds. The breeder identifies it as an All-America Selections National Winner. ## Growing conditions Sow in full sun in well-drained soil. Dill grows quickly from seed and is best established where it will remain, since its long root makes transplanting less convenient. Keep the bed weeded while plants are small. The University of Delaware Extension lists this cultivar among productive forms with dense leaves and describes dill as suitable for containers. Flowering is typically a summer feature; successive sowings can extend the supply of young foliage in suitable climates. Dill is also a food plant for swallowtail caterpillars, so inspect plants before removing larvae from a wildlife-friendly herb bed. ## Maintenance Harvest leaves as needed before or around the start of flowering for leafy use. Allow some flower heads to mature if seed is wanted, then collect them as they dry. Uncollected seed may self-sow. The compact cultivar normally does not need staking.