Dill (Anethum graveolens)

In short: Dill (Anethum graveolens) is an undemanding annual herb that grows up to 1 metre tall and needs full sun, warmth and shelter from wind. Sow it directly into the bed from April, ideally every 2–3 weeks for a steady supply. Cut the leaves all summer and harvest the seeds once they turn brown.

Dill (lat. Anethum graveolens) belongs to the Apiaceae family. Dill was a popular culinary and medicinal herb even among the ancient Egyptians and Romans. It originates probably from Western Asia. In the early Middle Ages, monks brought it to Europe, where it has since become widely distributed. This annual plant is easily confused visually with fennel. It grows up to 1 meter tall, with a hollow stem and finely divided leaves. During midsummer, numerous small yellowish flowers appear in large umbels, from which the well-known dill seeds later mature. They are initially round and whole, splitting into two parts - mericarps - when dried. The many essential oils that dill contains give it its unmistakable aroma.

How to Grow Dill

Dill needs full sun and warmth, and due to its delicate structure, should be protected from wind. In such a location, it best develops its pleasant aroma. It is an undemanding herb that tolerates poor soil, which must be moist but not waterlogged.

From April onwards, we can sow it directly into the bed, ideally repeatedly every 2-3 weeks to ensure a sufficient supply of fresh herbs. Dill can be sown together with vegetables; it gets along particularly well with carrots or cucumbers. Keep the soil consistently loose to prevent waterlogging. Leaves can be cut throughout summer and used fresh. They can also be dried or frozen, though they partially lose their aroma in the process. Seeds are ready for harvest when they turn brown.

Uses of Dill

Dill is most commonly used in herbal cuisine. Fresh dill leaves add flavor to fish and vegetable dishes, sauces, and salads. Dill foliage is popular both in preparing herbal vinegar and in pickling brine for cucumbers. Try dill dip as well. However, dill also has medicinal properties, as tea made from dill seeds helps with digestive problems and bloating. It has a mild soothing effect, and because it is diuretic, it can also be used for kidney stones. It also promotes milk production. With its delicate foliage and airy yellow umbels, dill is a beautiful addition to an ornamental garden.