Dill Common

Dill Common: variety and characteristics

Dill Common (Anethum graveolens) is an annual herb of the Carrot family (Apiaceae). Dill seeds give a sharper flavour and are used as a spice, while the leaves, especially when fresh, have a sweeter taste and aroma.

Dried and fresh dill is a great seasoning for all kinds of soups, cold soups and thick meat sauces.

It stimulates the appetite and aids the digestive processes. The umbels are indispensable for pickling cucumbers.

Dill is indispensable for tarator, cucumbers, pickles and fish dishes. Grows fast and self-seeds.

Key features

• Pack size: 3 g
• Sowing: March – May; direct
• Flowering: June – September
• Harvest: May – September
• Position: sunny spot

When to sow Dill Common

Dill Common seeds are sown in March – May. The plants flower from June to September. Harvest takes place from May to September. The months are a guide for a temperate climate — in warmer areas sow 1–2 weeks earlier, in cooler or upland areas, later.

How to sow and grow Dill Common

• Sowing method: direct
• Depth: 1 cm
• Spacing: 20–25 cm
• Germination: 10–14 days at 15–20 °C
• Position: sunny spot

Sow the seeds directly in the ground in spring. Sow every two weeks from March to July for a succession of plants. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate after about 2-3 weeks. Thin the seedlings to 15-20 cm. apart. Make sure the young seedlings get enough moisture. The plants grow best in sun and well-drained soils. Pick the leaves for cooking, which are best before flowering. Leave some flowers to set seed, as these can be dried and used for cooking.

Sow directly every 2–3 weeks — dill does not like transplanting. Keep the soil moist.

Harvest and use

Pick the leaves before flowering; the seed umbels — for pickling and as a spice.

Frequently asked questions

When should Dill Common be sown?

The recommended sowing months are March – May. Sowing method: direct.

Why does dill bolt quickly?

From heat and dryness. Sow in several batches and water regularly.