Growing dill in your backyard garden is easy, and it’s a versatile herb that can be used in many culinary dishes.
Location: Dill prefers full sun but can tolerate some light shade, especially in hot climates. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Soil: Dill grows best in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH level between 5.8 and 6.5. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with organic matter like compost to improve drainage.
Planting Seeds: You can either sow the seeds directly in your garden or start them indoors in pots for later transplant. If starting indoors, sow the seeds 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. Sow the dill seeds about 0.5cm deep in furrows and cover. Space your rows about 30cm apart. As the seeds are small, just sprinkle them in then, once the seedlings are around 5cm tall, thin them to a final spacing of 30cm apart. This will allow the remaining plants to grow more vigorously.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Dill doesn’t like standing water, so ensure the soil has good drainage.
Fertilization: Dill doesn’t require heavy feeding. You can apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once at the beginning of the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as too much nitrogen can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flavor.
Support: Tall dill plants may benefit from support like stakes or cages, especially if they are exposed to windy conditions.
Pruning and Deadheading: Pinch off any flowers that form on the dill plants to encourage leafy growth.
Harvesting: You can start harvesting dill leaves when the plant is around 20-30cm tall. Snip the leaves with scissors or shears.
Pest and Disease Management: Dill is relatively pest-resistant, but you should still monitor your plants for aphids and caterpillars. Use appropriate organic controls if necessary.
Dill is a great addition to your backyard garden, and it pairs well with a variety of dishes, especially in pickles and salads. By following these steps, you can enjoy a fresh and readily available supply of this aromatic herb throughout the growing season.
