Growing Fennel for the Bulb

Fennel

I have been unsuccessful growing fennel for the bulbs.  I have tried Florence fennel and Smokey fennel but all I get are leaves and seeds but no swollen stems.

Selection and care are the keys to success.  Some fennels like Smokey are grown for the leaves and the seeds.  This particular fennel has beautiful bronze foliage and produces flavorful leaves and seeds for teas and seasoning.  Florence fennel is an annual fennel grown for the bulb.  These plants prefer cool temperatures and long seasons (80 days) to produce a bulb.  Plant seeds in well drained soil and keep it moist but not overly wet.  Once established water thoroughly as needed throughout the season.  Remove any flowers that appear to encourage bulb development.  Once the base begins to swell, you can cover it with soil to blanch (whiten) the bulbous stems.  It will be ready to harvest in several weeks.  Treiste and Perfection are two cultivars that form bulbs in less than desirable conditions.

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