Fennels are versatile garden plants appreciated for their unique anise-like aroma and flavor. Closely related to dill, fennels offer edible bulbs, leaves, and seeds that enrich salads, soups, and pickled dishes. Ideal for gardeners in Estonia, fennels thrive in fertile, humus-rich soil and prefer sunny locations, making them a rewarding addition to home gardens and urban balconies alike.
Why Grow Fennels in Your Garden
- Multiple Uses: Enjoy fresh fennel bulbs in salads or cooked meals, dry leaves and seeds for seasoning, and add a distinct aroma to your culinary creations.
- Adapted Varieties: Choose from early to moderately early varieties that fit well within Estonia's growing season, ensuring a reliable harvest from July to August.
- Easy Cultivation: Sow seeds directly in the field or start seedlings indoors for an earlier crop, with recommended spacing of 30x30 cm for optimal growth.
Growing Tips for Fennels
- Plant fennels in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with plenty of sunlight for best results.
- Start seeds indoors in March or April or sow directly outdoors from April to May.
- Keep soil moist but avoid waterlogging to prevent bulb rot.
- Harvest bulbs in mid to late summer when they reach full size and firmness.
- Leaves and seeds can be harvested throughout the season for drying and storage.
Tips for Estonian Gardeners
- Use fennel seeds to add flavor to pickled vegetables, a traditional way to preserve garden produce.
- In urban gardening, compact fennel varieties suit container cultivation on balconies or windowsills.
- Combine fennel planting with microgreens and quick-growing herbs to maximize seasonal yield and fresh produce availability.
- Incorporate fennel into flower meadows or mixed vegetable beds to attract beneficial insects and enhance biodiversity.
Whether you are an experienced gardener or just starting your vegetable patch, fennels offer a practical and flavorful crop that fits well with Estonia's climate and gardening trends. Explore different fennel varieties and enjoy fresh, homegrown flavor throughout the summer months. Start your fennel cultivation today and experience the joy of growing this aromatic and useful plant.
Discover more about vegetable seeds and herbs in our catalog to enrich your garden selection and harvest.