How to grow Fennel in the UK
Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is a herb that grows well in UK gardens. Bronze fennel is gorgeous in borders. Self-seeds; cuts well for kitchen use. This guide covers when and how to sow Fennel, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Fennel
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Sow | May | Jun Harvest | Jul Harvest | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Full sun
- Sowing depth
- Surface to 1 cm
- Spacing
- 20–30 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow spring; tall feathery perennial — self-seeds freely
- Growing
- Keep well away from dill (they cross) and most veg
- Harvest & upkeep
- Cut back to limit seeding; harvest leaves and seed
- Watch for
- Aphids
Companion planting for Fennel
Keep apart from:
Notoriously antisocial in the bed and it cross-pollinates with dill/coriander — site it on its own.
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Fennel FAQs
When should I sow Fennel in the UK?
In the UK, sow Fennel in April. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What should you not plant near Fennel?
Keep Fennel away from Asparagus Pea, Broad Bean, Carrot, Coriander, Dill, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Fennel need?
Fennel prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Fennel ready to harvest?
Fennel is typically ready to harvest in June, July, August, September, October in the UK.
Is Fennel easy to grow?
Moderate. Bronze fennel is gorgeous in borders. Self-seeds; cuts well for kitchen use.