Basics

Ease of Growing
Moderate
Grown as
Annual
Days to Maturity
67-80 (Spring/Summer), 70-85 (Fall/Winter)
Growing Habit
-
Hardiness
Hardy

Finocchio is hardy and prefers cooler temperatures.

Crops
Spring Transplant, Spring, Fall
Growing Season
Long
Cultivar Type
-
Growing Conditions
Cold, Cool

Fennel needs rich soil and cool growing temperatures. Keep plants well-watered throughtout the growing season.

Outdoor Growing Temp
45°F - 75°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp
45°F

Bulb Fennel is a cool weather plant. It can grow in the heat but tastes best if it matures in the cool weather of fall.

Start Indoors
Yes
Start Outdoors
Yes
Light
Sun: min. 6 hours daily (Cold, Cool)

Fennel likes full sun and can tolerate hotter and drier conditions than most crops. However it grows and tastes better if it matures in cool weather, hence it is most often grown as a fall crop.

Water
Moderate

The soil should be kept evenly moist for rapid growth, but be careful because Finocchio doesn't like wet soil. A mulch will help to conserve moisture in warm weather.

Feeder
Light

Fennel is a fairly light feeder and doesn't need very rich soil.

Suitability
Tolerates light frost
Small Gardens?
Yes
Containers?
Yes

Finocchio is a good option for container growing. Choose containers that are at least 10" deep, as it's roots grow long and deep. Make sure your pot has drainage holes. Line the bottom with gravel and cover with potting soil. Water evenly to moisten the soil and place in an area with full sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not soaked, making sure that the soil does not dry out.

Attracts beneficial insects?
Yes
Color
Pale green
Fruit Size
- "
Plant Height
24.0 - 36.0"
Plant Diameter
12.0 - 18.0"
Hardiness Zone
4-9
Disease Resistance
-
Taste Profile

Sweet with a classic anise flavor.

Rotation Group
Roots: Alliums + Umbeliferae