Florence Fennel, 'Zefa Fino'

Germination

Sow directly. Best planted in early spring or mid summer so that plants can mature in cooler weather. Sow seeds 6mm deep, 5cm apart in rows with 45cm spacing. Will germinate with a temp. of 10-30°C. When plants are 5cm tall thin to 30cm x 100cm spacing as the plants are greedy for space and nutrients.

Growing

Prefers moist, fertile soil. Requires consistent moisture levels to prevent bolting. Water twice per week. Add a general fertiliser once or twice a season.

Cultivation

Can be invasive if flowers are allowed to set seed, therefore deadhead all bar one plant whose seed can be harvested. Leaves can be harvested at any time. Harvest once the bulb is 7-12cm in size. Leave the roots in the ground so that they can regrow. These are hardy so growth will continue through frosts. Ideally eat bulb within 24 hours of picking or 3-4 days max as the flavour is lost with time.