How to grow dill
Overview
Dill is a fast-growing annual herb in the Apiaceae family, prized for its feathery foliage and distinctive flavour. It is grown for both its leaves and seeds, making it a versatile kitchen staple. A key point for success is to sow seed directly where it will grow, as seedlings do not transplant well.
Varieties
- Bouquet — A popular variety in Australia, known for its compact growth and abundant leaves.
- Dukat — A slow-bolting variety with high leaf yield, ideal for extended harvests.
- Fernleaf — A dwarf variety suitable for pots and small gardens, with fine, fern-like foliage.
Soil Preparation
Dill prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to improve fertility and drainage. Avoid heavy clay soils that can cause waterlogging.
Growing Guide
Plant dill in a position with full sun and well-drained soil. Sow seeds directly at a depth of 5 mm, spacing them 20–30 cm apart. For a continuous supply, sow small batches every 3–4 weeks. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during germination and active growth. Dill grows best as a seasonal crop, so plant in spring or early autumn to avoid extreme heat or frost.
Sowing
Sow dill seeds directly into the garden at a depth of 5 mm, spacing them 20–30 cm apart. Germination takes 7–14 days in warm soil. Direct sowing is essential because dill has a taproot that dislikes disturbance; transplanting often leads to poor growth or bolting.
Care
Feed dill with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 4–6 weeks during active growth to keep it healthy. No pruning is needed; simply harvest leaves regularly to maintain productivity. Remove any flower heads if you want to delay bolting and extend the leaf harvest.
Companion Planting
Dill is a good companion for brassicas like cabbage and broccoli, as it can attract beneficial insects. Avoid planting dill near carrots, as they can cross-pollinate and reduce seed quality. It also pairs well with lettuce and cucumbers in the garden.
Common Pests & Risks
Aphids and caterpillars are common pests on dill in Australian gardens. Control aphids with a strong water spray or insecticidal soap, and hand-pick caterpillars. Dill can also attract carrot rust fly, so avoid planting near carrots.
Harvesting
Harvest dill leaves when they are young and tender, before the plant flowers, for the best flavour. For seed heads, wait until they turn brown and dry on the plant, then cut and collect in a paper bag. Regular leaf harvesting encourages the plant to stay productive and delays bolting.
In the Kitchen
Dill leaves are best used fresh in salads, sauces, and with fish, especially salmon. The seeds are used in pickling and baking. To store, freeze leaves in ice cubes or dry seeds in a cool, dark place.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: often caused by overwatering or poor drainage; reduce watering and improve soil. Brown edges: may indicate heat stress or inconsistent watering; provide shade in hot spells and water regularly. Bolting early: triggered by heat or transplant stress; sow in cooler months and avoid disturbing roots. Poor germination: usually from old seeds or cold soil; use fresh seed and wait for soil to warm. Leggy growth: a sign of too little sun; move to a full sun position.