Dill

Anethum graveolens · Herb

A feathery, fragrant herb for fish, pickles and salads. It grows quickly from seed and dislikes being moved, so sow it where it will stay. Its flat yellow flower heads also attract helpful insects.

💧Water1–2 times a week, when top 1 in is dry (estimated)

☀️LightFull sun, 6–8 hours

🐾PetsNot toxic

Care at a glance

Light: Full sun, 6–8 hours
Water: About 1 in per week; moderate
Soil: Light, well-drained, pH 5.5–6.5
Temperature: Best 60–75 °F; bolts quickly in heat
Spacing: 10–12 in apart
Container: At least 2 gallons, 12 in deep (taproot)
Harvest: Leaves 40–55 days, seeds 85–100 days (estimated)
Lifespan: Annual

When?

Sow outdoors after the last frost, then every 3 weeks until midsummer for a steady leaf supply. In mild climates an autumn sowing also works (estimated).

Step by step

Sow directly in the bed; seedlings resent transplanting.
Press seeds 1/4 in deep and keep moist; they sprout in 7–21 days.
Thin seedlings to 10–12 in apart.
Shelter tall varieties from wind or give them a stake.
Snip outer leaves once plants are 8 in tall.
Let a few plants flower if you want seeds or to feed beneficial insects.
Cut seed heads when they turn brown and dry them in a paper bag.

Common problems

Flowers too earlyHeat or dry soil; sow in cooler weeks and water steadily.

Green and black striped caterpillarsSwallowtail larvae; move them to a spare plant or tolerate a few.

Clusters of aphidsWash off with a strong spray of water.

Pets

Not listed as toxic to cats or dogs. If in doubt, ask your vet.

Similar plants

Parsley Coriander Chamomile

Sources

ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants

This page is general guidance; no pesticide doses are given.