← Back to all plants

Dill

Anethum graveolens

The feathery, fragrant herb that brings delicate flavor and beneficial insects to the garden—a cooling presence that attracts helpful allies.

🌱 Root Zone: Shallow
🌱 Annual ☀️ Full Sun 💧 Moderate Water 🌡️ Zones 3-9
🌿

Best Roommates 12

Carrot

Dill attracts beneficial insects that prey on carrot pests

Tomato

Dill attracts beneficial parasitic wasps that control tomato hornworms

Marjoram

Similar herb benefits; attract beneficial insects together

Basil

Both herbs attract beneficial insects; no nutrient competition

Chives

Compatible herbs; attract similar beneficial insect populations

Potato

Attracts beneficial parasitic insects; no nutrient competition

Nasturtium

Dill attracts beneficial insects; nasturtium provides trap crop benefits

Cucumber

Dill attracts beneficial insects that prey on cucumber pests

Onion

No competition; complementary pest-repelling properties

Marigold

Both attract beneficial insects; dill provides additional nectar source

Oregano

Similar insect-attracting benefits; complementary aromas

Parsley

Complementary herbs; both attract beneficial insects

Keep Your Distance 1

Fennel

Both from same family (Apiaceae); compete for nutrients and attract same pests

Growing Guide

🌱 Planting

  • Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost
  • Transplant when soil reaches 65°F (18°C)
  • Space plants 18-24 inches apart
  • Plant in well-draining, rich soil with pH 6.0-6.8

💧 Water & Soil

  • Water deeply 1-2 inches per week
  • Mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds
  • Consistent watering prevents fruit cracking
  • Avoid wetting foliage to prevent disease

☀️ Light & Temperature

  • Requires 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
  • Ideal temperatures: 70-85°F (21-29°C)
  • Protect from strong winds
  • Use row covers in cooler climates

🌿 Care & Maintenance

  • Stake or cage plants for support
  • Prune suckers below the first flower cluster
  • Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during fruiting
  • Monitor for common pests and diseases

Harvesting & Storage

🍅 When to Harvest

  • Harvest when fully colored but still firm
  • Ripe when gently pressed gives slightly
  • Best flavor developed at room temperature
  • Check daily during peak season

🏠 Storage Tips

  • Store at room temperature out of direct sun
  • Avoid refrigeration (cold ruins flavor/texture)
  • Use within 5-7 days for best quality
  • Can be frozen, canned, or dried for preservation

Troubleshooting Guide

🐛 Common Pests

  • Hornworms: Hand-pick or use Bt
  • Aphids: Spray with soapy water
  • Whiteflies: Use yellow sticky traps
  • Spider Mites: Increase humidity, use neem oil

🦠 Common Diseases

  • Early Blight: Remove affected leaves, improve airflow
  • Blossom End Rot: Ensure consistent calcium supply
  • Cracking: Maintain even watering
  • Powdery Mildew: Increase air circulation

Get Growing

Ready to add Dill to your garden? Find high-quality organic seeds to get started.

Find Dill Seeds

As an Amazon Associate, Rootmates may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.

Common Questions

What are the best companion plants for Dill?

Dill (Anethum graveolens) is a shallow root plant. The best companions include Carrot, Tomato, Marjoram, Basil, Chives, Potato, Nasturtium, Cucumber, Onion, Marigold, Oregano, Parsley.

What should you NOT plant next to Dill?

Avoid planting Fennel near Dill as they may compete for nutrients or attract similar pests.

Can I grow Dill in a container?

Yes! Dill has a shallow root system, making it ideal for container gardening.

Dill (Anethum graveolens): The Ultimate Herb Garden Guide

Quick Stats

  • Days to Harvest: 50-60 days
  • Plant Height: 2-3 feet
  • Spacing: 12-18 inches apart
  • Sunlight: Full sun (6-8 hours daily)
  • Water Needs: Moderate, consistent moisture
  • Growing Zones: 2-11

Overview

Dill (Anethum graveolens) is a versatile, aromatic herb that transforms gardens and kitchens with its delicate feathery foliage and robust flavor profile. Native to Mediterranean and southeastern European regions, this annual herb offers gardeners exceptional culinary and ecological benefits.

Strategic Planting Timeline

Cool-Season Crop Planting Windows

  • Spring Planting: 2-3 weeks before last expected frost
  • Fall Planting: 6-8 weeks before first expected frost
  • Succession Planting: Every 2-3 weeks for continuous harvest

Expert Planting Methodology

Optimal Preparation Steps

  • Select full-sun location with excellent drainage
  • Test and amend soil (ideal pH 5.5-6.5)
  • Incorporate organic compost for nutrient enrichment
  • Direct sow seeds 1/4 inch deep
  • Maintain soil temperature 60-70°F for optimal germination
  • Thin seedlings to 12-18 inches once reaching 4 inches tall

Climate Adaptation Strategies

Temperature Preferences

  • Ideal Growing Range: 50-70°F
  • Frost Tolerance: Light frost acceptable
  • Heat Sensitivity: Prone to bolting in high temperatures
  • Adaptable to USDA Zones 2-11

Comprehensive Care Protocol

Soil Requirements

  • Texture: Light, well-draining
  • Organic Matter: Moderate compost integration
  • pH Range: 5.5-6.5

Watering Strategy

  • Consistent moisture
  • Avoid waterlogging
  • Morning watering recommended
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture

Companion Planting Intelligence

Synergistic Plant Relationships

  • Cucumbers: Attracts beneficial predatory wasps that control cucumber beetle populations
  • Lettuce: Provides shade and improves overall garden microclimate
  • Cabbage Family: Deters cabbage moths through aromatic compounds
  • Corn: Supports vertical growth and pest management

Incompatible Plant Warnings

  • Carrots: Risk of cross-pollination and shared pest vulnerabilities
  • Tomatoes: Compete for nutrients and attract similar pests
  • Peppers: Potential allelopathic interactions

Advanced Harvesting Techniques

Leaf Harvesting

  • Optimal Height: 8-12 inches
  • Technique: Cut outer stems, preserve central growth
  • Best Time: Early morning for maximum essential oil content
  • Frequency: Every 7-10 days during peak season

Seed Collection

  • Timing: After flower heads turn brown and dry
  • Method: Cut entire flower head
  • Processing: Allow complete drying before storage

Precise Storage Protocols

Fresh Leaves

  • Storage: Refrigerate in damp paper towel
  • Shelf Life: 3-5 days
  • Preservation: Freeze in ice cube trays with olive oil

Dried Leaves/Seeds

  • Container: Airtight, opaque glass jar
  • Location: Cool, dark environment
  • Seed Viability: Up to 1 year

Comprehensive Pest Management

Targeted Pest Solutions

Aphids

  • Biological Control: Introduce ladybugs
  • Organic Treatments: Neem oil spray
  • Preventative: Encourage beneficial insect populations

Tomato Hornworms

  • Manual Removal: Hand-pick from plants
  • Biological Control: Beneficial nematodes
  • Habitat Management: Rotate crops annually

Powdery Mildew

  • Prevention: Ensure proper air circulation
  • Treatment: Avoid overhead watering
  • Organic Fungicides: Diluted milk solution (1:9 ratio)

Regional Growing Adaptations

Northern Regions (Zones 2-4)

  • Indoor Seed Starting: 4-6 weeks before last frost
  • Season Extension: Utilize cold frames
  • Variety Selection: Quick-maturing cultivars

Southern Regions (Zones 8-11)

  • Planting Windows: Early spring/fall
  • Heat Management: Afternoon shade protection
  • Variety Selection: Heat-tolerant cultivars

Culinary Applications

Versatile Flavor Profiles

  • Pickles
  • Fish preparations
  • Fresh salads
  • Herbed sauces
  • Potato dishes

Pro Gardener Insights

  • Prevent bolting by removing flower heads
  • Use fresh for maximum flavor intensity
  • Experiment with multiple varieties

Dill represents more than an herb—it's a garden ecosystem engineer, culinary enhancer, and botanical marvel. Master its cultivation, and you'll unlock a world of flavor and garden harmony!

⚠️ Note: Some plant information on this site is AI-generated. While we strive for accuracy, we recommend verifying critical growing information with local extension services or horticultural experts before planting.