Lawn Guardian

When to Plant Dill

Anethum graveolens

herbZones 3–10beginner

Feathery herb essential for pickles, fish, and Scandinavian cooking. Self-sows readily for a permanent patch. Attracts beneficial insects including swallowtail butterflies.

Planting calendar

Direct sow only -- transplanting causes bolting; succession plant every 3 weeks; self-sows readily

Spacing & harvest

• Plant spacing: 8-12 inches
• Row spacing: 12-18 inches
• Days to harvest: 40-60 days
• Ready when: Harvest leaves anytime; for seed heads, cut when seeds turn brown and dry on the plant

Companion planting

Plant near

• Cucumber — Attracts beneficial predatory wasps
• Pickling Cucumber — Attracts beneficial insects and convenient for pickling
• Cabbage — Attracts beneficial wasps that prey on cabbage worms
• Broccoli — Attracts beneficial insects that eat cabbage worms
• Cauliflower — Attracts beneficial wasps
• Brussels Sprouts — Attracts beneficial wasps that prey on cabbage worms
• Curly Kale — Attracts beneficial wasps that eat cabbage worms
• Lacinato Kale — Attracts beneficial wasps
• Collard Greens — Attracts beneficial wasps
• Sweet Potato — Attracts beneficial insects
• Bok Choy — Attracts beneficial wasps that prey on brassica pests
• Arugula — Attracts beneficial insects

Keep away from

• Carrot — Same family -- can cross-pollinate and attracts same pests