Aside from its healing qualities, this Mediterranean native is a common kitchen ingredient with a sweet licorice taste. It is widely cultivated for its edible and strongly flavored fruits and leaves. Fennel Herb is a hardy, perennial herb with yellow flowers and feathery leaves. Although it is indigenous to the Mediterranean shores, it also grows wildly in most parts of temperate Europe up to India. Its leaves, bulb, and stalk are edible while the seeds are used as a spice in cooking and as an element of herbal medicines. Studies have shown that fennel is an effective digestive aid used in relieving intestinal spasms and stomach cramps. In the UK, it is used as a decorative plant. It is also naturally found along roadsides and pasture sites in many parts of Europe, United States, Canada, Asia, and Australia.
Because of its versatility as a plant, many people prefer growing fennel in their gardens and backyards. Because it grows fast and strong, make sure that you have enough space for its growth if you are planning to Grow Fennel Herb. You should also have the time to trim it often for it can reach up to four feet tall if not properly maintained. You can propagate the plant through its seeds. Directly sow the seeds into your garden at the start of the mid-summer season and then put soil on its top. As mentioned, you have to space the seeds farther apart especially if you plan to grow them big. The plant also grows best in full sunlight. Make sure that the soil is also well-drained. If its dry season, make sure to water the plants once or twice per week. In addition, do not forget to add some fertilizer to support their growth. Once the herbs begin to grow, you can begin harvesting the leaves anytime. Start harvesting the flower heads when the seeds have formed. Wait until the bulbs reach the size of a tennis ball or bigger before you harvest them.
You can also grow the Fennel Herbs in partial shade if you do not have a big yard but you have to make sure that the soil is rich and it remains moist and well-drained most of the time. If you are in a mild climate, plant the seeds in early spring. There are also different varieties of this herb so make sure that you follow seed package directions of planting for each kind.
