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How to Grow Dill

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Dill (Anethum graveolens)

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🛠️ Supplies You'll Need

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🌿 Plant Overview

Scientific Name Anethum graveolens
Category herb
Type Leaf
Days to Maturity 40 days
Starting Method Direct Sow

☀️ Growing Requirements

☀️

Sun

Full Sun (6-8 hours)

💧

Water

Moderate

↔️

Spacing

12" apart

🌱

Depth

0.25" deep

📏

Height

24-36"

🌱

Germination

7-14 days

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Common Dill Varieties

Popular cultivars to look for at your local nursery or seed supplier.

Mammoth

open-pollinated

Tall, vigorous dill growing to 5 feet; maximum seed production for pickling.

Fernleaf

hybrid 40d

Compact dwarf variety ideal for containers and small gardens; slow to bolt.

Bouquet

open-pollinated

Most popular all-purpose variety with abundant seeds and tender leaves for fresh use.

Dukat

open-pollinated

Scandinavian variety with extra-dark foliage and superior leaf flavor; slower bolting.

Days-to-maturity figures are approximate and vary by climate and growing conditions.

🌾 Seed Saving Guide

🟢 Easy
✅ Open-pollinated — seeds grow true to parent

When to Harvest Seed

Allow seed heads to fully mature and turn brown. Harvest before they shatter.

Processing

Cut entire seed head into a paper bag, allow to dry, shake out seeds.

Seed Viability

Up to 3 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.

Pro Tip

Dill cross-pollinates with fennel — keep at least 150 feet apart or sacrifice one species for seed purity.

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Raised Bed Planting Guides

A 4×8 bed fits 32 plants of Dill. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →

Dill Planting Calendar by Zone

Dill Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Dill? +

Sow Dill seeds directly in the garden 4 weeks before your last frost date. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

How long does Dill take to grow? +

Dill typically matures in about 40 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Dill indoors or direct sow? +

Dill does best when direct sown outdoors. Plant seeds directly in the garden at the appropriate time based on your local frost dates.

How much sun does Dill need? +

Dill requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Dill? +

Space Dill plants 12 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Dill need? +

Dill has moderate water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Dill? +

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Dill is rated easy. Allow seed heads to fully mature and turn brown. Harvest before they shatter. Cut entire seed head into a paper bag, allow to dry, shake out seeds.

How long do Dill seeds last in storage? +

Properly dried and stored Dill seeds remain viable for up to 3 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Are Dill seeds open-pollinated? +

Yes — Dill is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.

About Dill

Self-sows readily. Both leaves (dill weed) and seeds are used in cooking and pickling.

Expect your Dill to be ready for harvest in approximately 40 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.