Share
Dill herb is a staple in Indian kitchens due to its versatility and distinct flavour. From dals to curries and chutneys, it improves many classic recipes. Its fresh leaves, sometimes referred to as "Sowa," or "Suva," have a distinctive flavour; the seeds are a strong spice. Home growing of dill guarantees a consistent supply of this herb, so it is a great addition to any kitchen garden.
Video Credit: YouTube | Toward Garden
Urban and suburban residences with limited space would find growing dill in pots a perfect alternative. It is easy to grow with little maintenance and thrives in little spaces. Kitchen gardening is becoming a popular trend in such places since it lets people grow fresh herbs right at home. Dill, with its simple growing needs, fits well into these short-spaced gardens.
How To Grow Dill Herb In Your Kitchen Garden
Image credit: Freepik
Choosing The Right Container
Dill requires deep containers to support its long tap root. A container that is 12 inches (30 cm) deep provides enough room for the roots to grow. Although it does not need excessive space, the container should be deep enough for proper root development. A 1-2 feet (30-61 cm) container is sufficient for growing dill.
Soil Preparation
Dill prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. A soilless potting mix works well for container-grown dill. It's important to ensure proper drainage by using a container with holes at the bottom. The soil should be loose enough to allow air and water to circulate efficiently. Lightly sprinkle the dill seeds over the soil and cover them with a thin layer of potting mix.
Sunlight Requirements
Image credit: Freepik
Dill plants need 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. If possible, place the container where it can receive direct sunlight for most of the day. If outdoor conditions are unsuitable, you can grow dill indoors using a grow light. A strong grow light can mimic natural sunlight, promoting healthy growth. The grow light should provide the equivalent of 5+ hours of direct sun with an intensity of 500 μmol/m²/s.
Watering Needs
Dill thrives with regular moisture but should not be overwatered. Water the plants just enough to keep the soil moist. Using a ceramic self-watering planter can help maintain the right moisture levels without waterlogging the plant. Consistent misting is beneficial, especially during the early stages of growth.
Germination Temperature
Dill is a warm-weather herb and prefers temperatures between 60°F and 90°F (15°C to 32°C). Warmer temperatures help speed up its growth, but extreme heat can cause the plant to wilt or become diseased. Keeping the environment at an optimal temperature of around 70°F (21°C) ensures the plant grows at its best.
Lighting For Indoor Growth
If growing dill indoors, proper lighting is crucial. Dill needs the equivalent of at least 5 hours of direct sunlight daily. A 24W grow light placed 6 inches above the plant ensures the plant gets the required light intensity. To keep harvesting fresh leaves, limit the light exposure to 10 hours a day using a timer.
Care And Maintenance
Image credit: Freepik
Once the seedlings are a few inches high, thin them out, leaving one or two strong plants per pot. Dill is an annual plant, so it doesn’t need long-term care, but regular pruning will encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from going to seed too early. Fertilise dill with a balanced plant food (10-10-10) at the start and switch to a nitrogen-rich blend (10-5-5) as it grows.
Harvesting Dill
Dill can be harvested once the plant reaches about 8 inches (20 cm) in height. Snip off the leaves as needed, but avoid cutting more than a third of the plant at a time to ensure continuous growth. The seeds can also be harvested once the flowers dry out, adding another layer of usefulness to this herb.
Growing dill herbs in containers is a simple yet rewarding experience. Dill can thrive in any home garden by providing the right conditions, such as deep containers, well-drained soil, and adequate sunlight. Whether indoors or outdoors, dill provides a fresh supply of herbs that enhance both the flavour and nutritional value of meals.
