Dill   

• Sow in spring to mid summer in batches to ensure a constant supply throughout the summer.
• As dill has an extensive root system, it doesn’t tend to need constant watering.

Prefers a sunny, sheltered situation. Dill needs a rich well drained soil and should be planted in situ as it does not transplant well. Ensure the earth is dug enough to allow growth of the tap root – a spade length at the minimum is a good guideline.

To harvest, simply pick off the leaves as required and leave the rest of the plant to continue growing. On average, dill is ready for harvest around 8 weeks after sowing when around 75cm high.

Dill seeds can be harvested when the lower part of a seed cluster is ripe.
Harvest leaves just as the flowers open. For seeds, hang clusters in warm, dry place with a tray beneath to catch seeds.

These plants have been known to grow well alongside Dill so consider planting:

It is a good idea to plant dill near roses as it attracts insects whose larvae feed on aphids. Also, dill planted near marigolds provide a magic splash of colour.

Some good companions for dill include: Broccoli, cabbages, asparagus, cucumber, lettuce, roses, marigold.

• Dill loves Cabbage

  Attracts a predator moth for cabbage wasp. Also improves the growth and health of cabbage.

• Dill loves Cucumber

These plants will not grow well with Dill so avoid planting these within close proximity:

Do not plant near fennel, however, as dill and fennel cross-pollinate.
Bad: Carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, eggplant, fennel.

• Dill hates Fennel

  Dill and fennel can cross pollinate.

These problems, diseases and pests are known to affect Dill plants:

Dill derives from the Old Norse word dilla meaning soothe, calm or lull. This may refer to it’s ability to treat colic.²

• Considered by the Romans to be a sign of luck and by the ancient Greeks a sign of wealth, dill was also used by the ancients as protection against witchcraft and as a love potion ingredient.
• Should an evil witch appear on the scene, pour them a cup of dill tea, which is said to rob them of their will to harm.
• It was believed that the dried seed heads hung in the home, over doorways, and above cradles symbolized love and provided protection.
• Infuse it in wine and passion is enhanced.¹
  *Can be taken to reduce flatulence.²³

Dillby, Shepu, Sowa

¹ Dill

² Mobi Motherhood

³ A Modern Herbal-Dill