Dill (Anethum graveolens), a member of the carrot family, and is valued both for its flavorful foliage and for its pungent seeds. As annuals, dill plants die each year, but their seeds can winter over in the soil to pop up the following year. Dill grows well in gardens throughout zones 3-10.
Dill is fast-growing enough that some of its foliage is mature enough to harvest in only eight weeks. Plan to sow crops in succession, three weeks apart, for a good supply over the entire growing season. Dill does best in full sun (with a bit of afternoon shade in the South). While fairly tolerant of poor soil conditions, it prefers a sandy or loamy soil that drains well. It is a light feeder, so extra fertilizer is not necessary for reasonably fertile soil. It’s easiest to sow seeds directly into the garden in rows, ¼ to ½ inch deep. Firm soil over the seeds and water gently. For a more naturalistic planting, scatter the seeds over a patch of ground; cover with 1/2 inch of soil, and water. Space plants 8 to 10 inches apart if harvesting leaves, or 10 to 12 inches apart if harvesting seed. If transplanting starts, take great pains to avoid disturbing the taproot that has formed. Dill can also be grown in containers and the dwarf varieties are especially suited for this use.
