Fennel, “Perfection” Seeds
Organic.
You are in for a real treat with this gourmet, but often overlooked, garden wonder. Also called Florence fennel, the white, crisp bulbous stem base has a delicious, anise flavor and can be eaten raw, used to flavor soups and pasta, deep-fried, or sautèed. Feathery foliage is attractive in the garden and is an excellent fresh garnish to fish and chicken. Seed can also be harvested as a spice. Sow in the fall for best success.
The crunchy, dense, licorice-flavored “bulb” is comprised of tightly layered, overlapping, swollen stalk ends. The feathery foliage looks similar to dill, but has a delicate, anise flavor. The seeds also taste similar to anise or licorice. ‘Perfection’ is a florence type fennel.
This 500 mg packet sows up to 17 feet.
Plant Vitals
When to Sow Outside: "For "bulb": Midsummer for fall harvest is optimal; ideal soil temperature is 60°–75°F. In cool summer areas (under 75°F): 1 to 2 weeks after average last frost. Mild Climates: Sow in fall for cool season harvest. For foliage only: Every 3 weeks after average last frost until midsummer.
When to Start Inside: 4 to 6 weeks before average last frost (recommended for spring "bulb" production). Use biodegradable pots for transplant.
Days to Emerge: 7–14 days
Seed Depth: ¼"
Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 10"
Row Spacing: 10"
Thinning: When 1" tall, thin to 1 every 10"
Harvesting: BULBOUS STEM BASE: Harvest any time after the base begins to fatten, and before plant begins to bolt. Cut just below the soil surface. LEAVES: Can be clipped for fresh use almost any time after plant becomes established. SEEDS: Harvest seeds when they turn from yellow green to grey green. If allowed to turn brown, they may fall to the ground before you can harvest them.