Fennel is a hardy perennial that can grow to 6ft. (2m). The seeds, leaves, bulbs, oils and stems are all used. The flowers of this herb attract many beneficial insects. Fennel has an anise-like flavor and is a popular culinary herb. There are many varieties of fennel including bulb, and Purpureum

Ideal Location- Fennel grows best in a sunny location, in well-drained fertile soil.

Cultivation - Fennel are grown from seed. Directly sow seeds into your garden as early in the season as the ground can be worked. Sow seeds early in the season and cover with ¼ in(25mm) of soil. Space seedlings or thin plants to 10-12" (25-30cm) apart, in rows 18-24 in.(45-60) apart. Condition soil with a medium-fertility organic soil improver. Start a new planting in mid summer to harvest in fall. Established plants may be divided in spring and fall. Keep soil moist and water regularly during dry periods.

Keep fennel well weeded, as it does not compete well. Cool weather is best for growing fennel. Seeds germinate best at soil temperatures of 61 to 64 F (15-18c). The plant has a tendency to bolt (flower prematurely) in warm summer weather. When you are growing fennel for the bulb, select a variety that will grow for a long time before bolting in order to produce better-developed bulbs.

Harvesting- Harvest leaves as at any time. Harvest flower heads after seeds have formed and the flower head has died. Extract seeds and dry them in a cool, dry location. Harvest bulbs when they reach tennis ball size or bigger. Pull every other one out as needed to allow those remaining to grow even bigger. Do not pull these plants up in advance of the first frost.They are very hardy and should continue to thrive and grow, even after a number of hard frosts.

Culinary Uses - Fennel can be eaten raw and is used in flavoring salads, breads, and is popular in many Italian and French dishes as well as other ethnic dishes. The leaves are used in sauces, soups, and condiments. The oil is used to flavor liqueurs, candy, fish and medicine.

Other Uses- Oil of Fennel is used in soaps as well as to flavor liqueurs, candy, fish and medicine. Fennel is considered to be a cure for many stomach related problems, particularly effective in reliving gas and cramps. It is also used to relive high fevers and is a natural pain reliever, many of the over the counter herbal remedies that you buy take in fennel as it is used as a smack agent.

Nutrients- Fennel contains these nutrients: Calcium Magnesium, Phosphorus, Sodium, Folic acid, Vitamin C, Potassium, and Phytoestrogens, and has a subtle anise-like flavor and scent