Dill: Planting, Growing, and Harvesting for Pickling and Beneficial Insects

Dill is an annual, self-seeding plant with feathery green leaves. Common in soups, stews, pickling. Easy to grow; attracts beneficial insects (wasps, predatory insects).

Planting

• Sow seeds ¼-inch deep, 18 inches apart in rich soil; gently rake in. Soil 60–70°F best.
• Dill doesn't transplant well; sow fresh in garden early summer. Shelter from strong winds.
• 10–14 days: plants appear. Another 10–14 days: thin to 12–18 inches apart.
• Garden companions: near cabbage/onions; away from carrots.

Care

• Water freely during growing season.
• For season-long supply: sow seeds every few weeks. For extended harvest: don't allow flowers.
• Undisturbed soil = more dill plants next season.

Pests and Diseases

• Leaf spot and occasional fungal leaf/root diseases

Harvest and Storage

• At 4–5 leaves: start harvesting. Pinch or scissor-cut leaves.
• Many plants: pinch entire stalks.

Recommended Varieties

• Fernleaf dill – good in potato salads, cucumber soup, fish dishes

Wit & Wisdom

For sweeter breath, chew dill seeds.

Recipes

• Dill and Potato Cakes
• Refrigerator Dill Pickles
• Dilled Green Beans

Cooking Notes

Many love making dill pickles with fresh dill. Learn with our tips/recipes/video. Dill seasons countless recipes.