Dill

Growing

Sow your dill seeds directly into the garden or a container where they will grow, as this herb does not typically handle transplanting well. Because it is a cool season crop, you can start it as soon as the soil has warmed, and the plant can even survive a light frost. To get the most out of your garden, use dill as a companion for cucumbers, broccoli, or young tomatoes. While it attracts beneficial pollinators and repels certain pests, be sure to prune the dill before it reaches the flowering stage if it is planted near tomatoes, as the mature flower heads can actually slow or stop the growth of your tomato plants.

The plant grows as a single upright stem with aromatic, fern-like leaves. Once the umbrella-shaped flower heads go to seed, the plant becomes an excellent way to attract predatory insects that help control garden pests. When harvesting the leaves, pick them when they are ready to use, as the flavor fades quickly once the plant is no longer fresh. For long-term use, you can dry the herb, pickle it, or freeze it; if you choose to freeze the leaves, blanching them first helps maintain their quality. You can also store the herb in the fridge after washing, but remember that the flavor is best when used immediately after harvest.