Is Dill A Mosquito-Repelling Plant?

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• Dill is an herb that can grow to over 3 feet tall and has a feathery fern-like greenery. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, but is also extremely heat sensitive. As the temperature rises, the plant becomes prone to bolting to flower. The tall, leggy plants also have hollow stems, which makes them fragile in windy areas. Stake dill plants, or plant them behind a windbreak to shelter them.

Sowing

• Due to its development of a taproot, dill does not transplant well and often bolts soon after. Therefore, direct-sowing is recommended. Sow after danger of frost has passed into a fertile, well-drained soil and keep it moist but not wet. It may be sown in rows or in bunches where self-seeding will be encouraged. Do staggered sowings every couple of weeks to keep yourself in harvest throughout the growing season. In hot climates, sow in the spring and again in the fall for a second harvest.

Bolting

• Choose varieties of dill that are slow to bolt if you live in a warm climate. Once it does bolt, the plant stops producing leaves and focuses on flower and seed production. If left to bolt and seed, warm areas may see a second round of plants pop up from being self-sown.

Drying

• Cut dill before bolting and hang it upside down in a cool, dark, dry place to dry. Dried dill has less flavor than fresh, but keeps its deep green color well. To preserve seeds, allow the plant to bolt, then cut as the seed pod matures to a tan color. Hang upside down to dry the leaves, but secure a small paper sack around the plant to cover the seed head and catch the drying seeds. Punch holes in the sides of the sack to allow for air circulation. Seeds must be completely dry before storing in air tight containers or they will mold. Keep cool and in the dark for best results.