by Jackie Voshell

Created on: February 25, 2010

Dill (Anethum graveolens) is best planted directly by seeding into moderately rich, loose soil in an area that will receive full sun. Thin the seedlings to 18 inches apart. Dill reseeds readily. Many of our grandmothers planted it in the corner of the garden and allowed the plants to drop their seeds, thereby ensuring a steady supply of the herb, year after year.

Plants grow two to three feet high with graceful, feathery gray -green foliage and greenish - yellow flowers, making it an attractive background plant. The flower tipped umbels form seeds. The leaves often referred to as dill weed, can be harvested anytime, cutting the outside leaves close to the stem first. To obtain the herb at the peak of its flavor, harvest the leaves just before the flower heads open.

Although dill plants can be found in the spring in garden centers, dill doesn’t always transplant well, and there is the difference in cost between a package of seeds and a plant. Unless one is in a desperate hurry for dill, seeds are the best choice. Common dill seeds can be found anywhere seeds are sold. In grandmother’s day dill was dill…not so in today’s world.

One needs to decide if the dill is being grown for its fresh leaves, seed or ornamental use. While dill (Anethum graveolens) is the old time favorite, newer varieties have emerged including Dill Herkules, with extra large leaves and increased leaf flavor. www.cooksgarden.com.

Dill, fernleaf, Anethum graveolens, fernleaf, is a dwarf variety that is perfect for small areas or container gardens. Growing only 18 inches tall, it is grown more for its leaves (weed) as it is slow to go to seed. www.parkseed.com  More and more florist are using herbs in arrangements with the variety Vierling, with its steel blue leaves and chartreuse head adding interest to cut flower designs, and pretty used in salads . www.johnnyseeds.com

The seeds should be gathered after they turn brown. Carefully cut the seed heads, tie the stems together and place in a paper bag upside down. Hang the bag in a warm, dark, dry place until the seeds are completely dry. Shake the seeds from the stems and store in a tightly closed container.

Dill weed can be dried on a screen in the shade for a day or two… no more or it will completely lose its flavor. Freezing, rather than drying is a far superior method of preserving dill weed. Dill is used with cucumbers both fresh and pickled. It goes well with new potatoes, salmon, green beans and carrots.

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