Dill Fernleaf | Anethum graveolens | Compact Dill | Herb

Fernleaf is a compact, dwarf dill variety developed especially for containers, patios, balconies and small growing spaces. Unlike taller traditional dill varieties, Fernleaf forms a compact, well-branched plant approximately 30–38 cm tall and normally does not require staking.

The plants produce abundant medium-green, finely divided and aromatic foliage with the classic fresh dill flavour. The leaves are excellent for potatoes, fish, salads, sauces, soups, pickling and many other dishes.

One of the main advantages of Fernleaf is its late flowering habit, which allows a longer period for harvesting fresh leaves before the plants begin to produce flowers and seed. It can be grown successfully in pots as well as directly in the garden.

Fernleaf is an All-America Selections (AAS) National Winner, recognised for its compact habit, productivity and suitability for container growing.

Plant Information

• Botanical Name: Anethum graveolens
• Variety: Fernleaf
• Common Name: Dill
• Herb Type: Fernleaf dill
• Plant Type: Annual herb
• Hybrid Status: Open pollinated
• Seed Type: Raw seed
• Plant Habit: Compact, upright and mounded
• Leaf Colour: Medium green
• Height: 30–38 cm
• Width: 25–30 cm
• Spacing: 25–36 cm for individually grown container or landscape plants
• Position: Full sun
• Suitable For: Pots, balconies, patio containers, herb gardens, fresh cutting and hydroponic growing
• Days to Maturity from Transplant: Approx. 28 days
• Days to Leaf Harvest from Sowing: Approx. 55–60 days
• Days to Seed: Approx. 95–115 days
• Flowering: Summer to late summer

Sowing & Germination

Direct sowing is recommended, as dill develops a taproot and generally prefers not to have its roots disturbed.

Sow outdoors in spring as soon as the soil can be worked. Sow the seeds approximately 3–6 mm deep in a fine, moist and well-drained soil.

At approximately 18–21°C, germination usually takes 7–21 days.

For a continuous supply of fresh dill leaves, make successive sowings approximately every 3 weeks.

Fernleaf can also be started indoors in pots or cell trays. Sow approximately 3–5 seeds per cell and transplant the young plants carefully to avoid unnecessary root disturbance.

Growing

Grow Fernleaf in full sun. It prefers a rich, light and well-drained soil, although dill adapts well to a range of garden soils.

Its naturally compact growth makes Fernleaf particularly suitable for pots and balcony planters. The dwarf plants remain relatively short and sturdy, so they are less likely to topple over and generally do not require staking.

Keep the soil evenly moist, particularly during establishment and when growing in containers. Avoid allowing pots to dry out completely during warm weather.

Because Fernleaf flowers later than many traditional dill varieties, it provides a longer harvesting period for fresh foliage.

Harvesting

Fresh leaves can be harvested once the plants are established and can continue to be picked until flowering begins.

Regularly cut individual leaves and young shoots as required. For the best flavour, use the foliage fresh.

For drying, harvest healthy foliage and dry it in a dark, well-ventilated place to help preserve its colour and flavour.

If growing Fernleaf for seed, harvest the seed heads when the seeds begin to turn golden brown. Both the foliage and mature seeds can be dried and stored for later use.

Culinary Use

Fernleaf has the fresh, aromatic flavour characteristic of traditional dill and can be used both fresh and dried.

It is particularly suitable for:

• Fish and seafood
• New potatoes and vegetables
• Fresh salads
• Yoghurt and sour cream sauces
• Soups
• Pickles and preserves
• Egg dishes
• Herb butters and dressings

Dill Fernleaf is an excellent choice when you want traditional dill flavour from a much more compact plant. Its dwarf habit, late flowering and long leaf-harvesting period make it particularly well suited to pots, balconies, patio planters and small gardens.