If you’re wondering how to grow Fennel, then you’ve come to the right place. This article will show you how to plant and harvest fennel leaves. It also tells you how to fertilize fennel. Fennel is a perennial plant, but it will need a hardy zone.
Harvesting fennel leaves
Fennel leaves can be harvested at different times during the growing season. The harvest is better if they are harvested early. You can dry the leaves if you don’t want to use them. Leave the bunches to dry in a cool place for at least a week. The seeds can also be dried.
Fennel bulbs can be harvested easily with a sharp knife or garden shaver. Cut the bulb about 2.5 to 5cm above the soil surface. It should be firm and not too soft, and it should be about three to five inches in diameter. Next, remove the bulb from the roots.
Harvesting fennel leaves begins when the bulb has grown to about the size of a tennis ball. It can be harvested after it has grown to about 90 days. It is also possible to harvest the fronds as soon as they are large enough to resemble a tennis ball. The bulb will not taste as good if it is left to grow for more than 125 days.
Your hardiness zone will determine if you can plant fennel perennially.
Fennel is a tough perennial and is a good choice for gardens that don’t experience harsh winters. It produces a lot of seed. To prevent them from self-seeding or becoming invasive, be sure to remove the spent flower heads. The bulb can be stored in an airtight bag for up to one week.
Fennel grows best in moderately acidic or neutral soil. It prefers a pH of 5.5 to 6.8. It may need an organic matter amendment if the soil is compacted. It may also need to be watered regularly. However, be sure not to over-water the plant or it may develop root rot.
Once you have chosen a spot for your fennel plants it is time to plant them. Fennel can also be propagated if you don’t already have a garden. This is a difficult process because fennel doesn’t like it.
Fertilizing fennel
Fertilizing fennel to make it grow more quickly is important for this plant. Fennel can be propagated in many ways. One method is to split the roots of an existing plant and transplant it in the soil. However, this method is not likely to work if the soil isn’t adequate for the plant to grow.
After the fennel bulb has been planted, the soil must be moistened and drained. It should also be slightly alkaline. Fennel thrives in soil pH 5.5 to 7. The soil pH can be raised by adding lime or fertilizer with the correct N-P-K numbers.
After the plant has established, fertilize it with a balanced liquid fertiliser. You don’t have to use much fertilizer, only half the recommended amount. A fertilizer that contains at least 20 percent compost is good enough for the fennel plant. The plant can be side-dressed twice with compost or aged manure. To maintain the plant’s health, fertilize fennel every four to six week.
Harvesting fennel bulbs
It is easy to harvest fennel bulbs. Once you have picked them, rinse them well with water and store in the refrigerator. They last for several weeks in the refrigerator. If you want to use them sooner, you can save them in an airtight plastic bag. However, if you do not use them immediately, they will lose their flavor.
Fennel plants can be affected by a variety of diseases and pests. The most common pest is aphids. Fortunately, this disease is not too severe and is easily controlled with insecticidal soap. Fungus problems are less common, but you can still treat the plants to prevent powdery and downy mildew.
Fennel bulbs can be harvested after 90 days of planting. When the plant reaches its prime, the leaves can be picked as well. Typically, the bulb of fennel is about the size of a tennis ball and will grow to be about two to three feet long. The bulb is edible but not very nice.
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I am a man of simple pleasures. I love spending my time in my yarn, where I cultivates beautiful flowers and fresh vegetables. Of course I takes great pride in his excellent yawn, and I loves to see the joy it brings to others – especially children. I also enjoys taking care of his lawn, and love to watch my dog play with the neighborhood kids on the lawn.