How to grow Florence Fennel in the UK
Foeniculum vulgare azoricum
Florence Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare azoricum) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Sow AFTER mid-June or it bolts. Likes rich, moist soil. Earth up to blanch the bulb. This guide covers when and how to sow Florence Fennel, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Florence Fennel
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun Sow | Jul Sow | Aug | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov Harvest | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Rich, moisture-retentive, free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.0
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 1 cm
- Spacing
- Thin to 30 cm
- Sowing
- Sow Jun–Jul direct; earlier sowings bolt — needs steady moisture
- Growing
- Earth up the swelling bulbs to blanch
- Harvest & upkeep
- Cut bulbs when fist-sized
- Watch for
- Slugs; bolting if checked
Companion planting for Florence Fennel
Keep apart from:
Fennel is a poor mixer — it inhibits many vegetables. Give it its own corner away from beans, tomatoes and carrots.
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Florence Fennel FAQs
When should I sow Florence Fennel in the UK?
In the UK, sow Florence Fennel in June, July. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What should you not plant near Florence Fennel?
Keep Florence Fennel away from Asparagus Pea, Broad Bean, Carrot, Dill, Dwarf French Bean, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Florence Fennel need?
Florence Fennel prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Florence Fennel ready to harvest?
Florence Fennel is typically ready to harvest in September, October, November in the UK.
Is Florence Fennel easy to grow?
Moderate. Sow AFTER mid-June or it bolts. Likes rich, moist soil. Earth up to blanch the bulb.