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Love dill in your dishes?
Why not grow your own?
It’s easier than you think. Here are 8 simple tactics to help you grow dill successfully.
Ready to get your hands dirty?
Let’s start growing!
Pick the Right Spot
First things first, choose a sunny spot! Dill loves the sun and needs at least 6-8 hours of it each day.
If you are growing it indoors, make sure it’s near a sunny window. Outdoor spots should be well-drained to prevent root rot.
So, scoping out the optimal spot is your first step to dill-growing success!
Get the Soil Right
Dill isn’t super fussy, but it does have preferences. Go for a slightly acidic to neutral pH soil, around 5.5 to 7.5.
You can easily test and tweak your soil pH with simple kits from your local garden store. Also, mix in compost or organic matter to give it a nutrient boost.
Healthy soil, happy plant!
Plant at the Right Time
Timing is everything! If you’re planting seeds outdoors, wait until the danger of frost has passed.
Think late spring or early summer. Indoors, you can start a bit earlier, but give your plants plenty of light and warmth.
Dill grows fast, so you’ll see results in no time!
Sow Seeds Sparingly
Dill seeds are tiny, so it’s easy to go overboard. Sprinkle them sparingly on the surface of your soil and lightly cover them.
Aim for a spacing of about 12 inches between plants. They’ll have plenty of room to grow and thrive without crowding each other out.
Water Wisely
Dill enjoys consistent moisture but hates soggy feet. Water your plants regularly, but make sure the soil drains well.
Over-watering can lead to root rot, while under-watering can cause wilting. A balanced watering routine will keep your dill perky and productive!
Thin and Prune
Once your seedlings are a couple of inches tall, thin them out to ensure better air circulation. This prevents fungal diseases and promotes healthier growth.
Also, feel free to pinch off the top leaves to encourage bushier growth. Your plants will thank you for the extra TLC!
Watch for Pests
Dill can attract some unwelcome guests like aphids and caterpillars. Keep an eye out for any pests and deal with them promptly.
A simple soap spray works great for aphids, and handpicking caterpillars can save your plants. Prevention is key, so regular checks are a must.
Harvest Smartly
Harvest your dill leaves once they are big enough to use. Snip them off as you need them, starting from the top.
If you want seeds, let some plants flower. Collect seeds once they start to turn brown.
And there you have it – fresh dill leaves and seeds to flavor your dishes!