Dill (Anethum graveolens) is a delicate and feathery herb known for its fresh, tangy flavor that combines notes of anise, citrus, and parsley. Originating from the Mediterranean and southern Russia, dill is a beloved herb in various culinary traditions, particularly in Eastern European, Scandinavian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Both the feathery fronds (also called dill weed) and seeds are used in cooking, adding a unique flavor to salads, pickles, sauces, and seafood. Besides its culinary uses, dill is valued for its digestive and antibacterial properties, making it a versatile addition to any garden.

Soil Requirements

Dill prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. It thrives in sandy or loamy soil that allows excess water to drain easily, as dill plants don’t like overly wet conditions. Adding compost to the soil before planting can improve its fertility, giving the dill a strong start. Although dill can adapt to different soil types, it does best in soil that is moderately rich in organic matter.

Sun Requirements

Dill loves sunlight and needs full sun exposure, ideally at least six to eight hours a day, to grow robustly. Sunlight enhances the plant’s essential oil production, giving dill its signature fragrance and flavor. In very hot climates, dill may benefit from some light afternoon shade, which can prevent it from bolting (going to seed) too quickly.

Watering Requirements

Dill needs moderate watering, preferring consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Water the plant at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can encourage mildew. During hot or dry weather, additional watering may be needed, but let the top inch of soil dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot, so be careful not to keep the soil too wet.

Best Plant Hardiness Zones

Dill is typically grown as an annual in USDA Hardiness Zones 2 to 11, as it completes its life cycle in one growing season. It does best in cooler climates or Spring and Fall in warmer zones, as hot Summer temperatures can cause it to bolt. Dill is frost-sensitive, so it should be planted after the last frost date in colder zones or grown indoors to extend the season.

Popular Dill Varieties

Dill is a popular and versatile herb with multiple varieties that cater to different culinary needs. From classic dill weed to unique dwarf types, each variety has its own flavor and growing characteristics, making dill an exciting herb to experiment with in both the kitchen and garden. Here are five common dill varieties and the best ways to use each one.

Bouquet Dill

Bouquet dill is one of the most widely grown dill varieties, known for its lush, aromatic foliage and abundant seed production. It grows tall and produces large flower heads, making it a favorite for both its greens and seeds. Bouquet dill is easy to grow and matures quickly, providing gardeners with a steady supply of flavorful greens and seeds.

Bouquet dill is perfect for pickling, as its seeds impart a strong, tangy flavor that enhances pickles, relishes, and sauces. The fronds can be used fresh in salads, dressings, and dips, adding a burst of dill flavor. Since this variety produces a lot of seeds, it’s also ideal for seasoning dishes like stews and breads, where the seeds’ flavor can shine.

Mammoth Long Island Dill

Mammoth Long Island dill is a tall-growing variety that lives up to its name, reaching heights of up to 5 feet under ideal conditions. Known for its robust growth and large flower heads, this variety is prized for both its flavorful foliage and seeds. It’s a popular choice for gardeners who want a high-yielding dill variety.

Mammoth Long Island dill is excellent for dill pickles, as its large flower heads produce a substantial number of seeds. The foliage is also flavorful, making it ideal for use in salads, seafood, and creamy sauces. Because of its tall growth, it’s a good choice for garden beds and can be used as a companion plant to deter pests, thanks to its strong aroma.

Fernleaf Dill

Fernleaf dill is a compact, dwarf variety that grows to around 18 inches, making it perfect for container gardening and small spaces. This variety is slower to bolt than other dill types, meaning it produces foliage for a longer period. Fernleaf dill is known for its fine, feathery leaves, which are milder in flavor than other types.

Fernleaf dill’s tender foliage is best used fresh, adding a mild dill flavor to salads, potato dishes, and eggs. Its smaller size makes it perfect for growing indoors on windowsills or in small herb gardens. Because it’s slower to flower, Fernleaf dill provides a longer harvest window, ensuring a steady supply of fresh leaves for garnishes and light dishes.

Dukat Dill

Dukat dill, sometimes called “Tetra” dill, is a variety that’s prized for its sweet and mild flavor. This type of dill has a high concentration of essential oils, which give it a rich aroma and a slightly sweeter taste than standard dill. Dukat is a medium-height variety, making it versatile for both garden beds and containers.

Dukat dill’s sweet flavor makes it a favorite for adding a fresh, subtle dill taste to dishes without overpowering them. It’s ideal for lighter preparations, such as cucumber salads, yogurt-based sauces, and cold dishes. Dukat dill is also popular for making flavored vinegars and oils, where its high essential oil content adds a unique twist.

Elephant Dill

Elephant dill is a newer variety that’s known for its large leaves and vigorous growth. It grows quickly and produces lush foliage, making it an excellent choice for those who want a high yield of dill weed. This variety can reach up to 3 feet in height and is slower to bolt than other types, providing a longer harvest period.

Elephant dill’s large leaves are flavorful and work well in both fresh and cooked dishes. Use it in marinades, sauces, and herb butter, where its full-bodied flavor can infuse the dish. It’s also ideal for seafood dishes, such as gravlax or dill-infused fish, where its large, tender fronds can be draped over the food for flavor and presentation. ❖