Dill care guide

Pets and children

We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.

How often to water Dill

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Every 2 days

Water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, as a guide; prolonged dryness toughens the leaves and hastens bolting.

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Every 3 days

Fall-sown seedlings are growing, so water once the soil is dry, as a guide.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Every 5 days

While a small plant sits out the winter, water a day or two after the soil dries, as a guide.

Light and placement for Dill

Generally wants full sun, with a sunny outdoor spot as the guide; it grows tall, so stake it or choose a spot sheltered from strong wind.

Overwintering Dill

Overwintering guide: −3°C (27°F) or above

An annual: spring-sown plants set seed and die in summer, while fall-sown seedlings are fairly cold-tolerant and generally overwinter small under the eaves as a guide, covered during frosty spells.

Fertilizing and repotting Dill

Fertilizer

Needs little: diluted liquid fertilizer about every two to three weeks while growing, as a guide; too much makes it soft and floppy.

When to repot

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Common problems with Dill

• Transplanting damages the taproot and the plant dies.
• Early-summer heat makes it bolt and the leaf harvest ends early.
• Aphids crowd the stems and flower heads.
• It grows tall and is blown over by wind.

Tips for growing Dill

• It has a taproot, so sow directly in its final pot and thin the seedlings.
• Planted near fennel it can cross and the flavor changes, so keep them apart.
• Harvest the leaves before it flowers, then collect the seeds for use.

More herb care guides

• FennelFoeniculum vulgare
• German chamomileMatricaria chamomilla
• Herbs (general)
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• Lemon balmMelissa officinalis
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