Seeds: When properly stored, planted, and cared for, we guarantee reasonable germination and true-to-type growth for one year from purchase.
Non-seed products: Free from defects in materials and workmanship for 30 days from shipment.
Excludes factors outside our control (extreme weather, pests, gardener error). If something’s off, contact us—we’ll make it right with a replacement, repair, or refund.
USDA “bioengineered (BE)” foods are those with detectable genetic material that was modified using in vitro recombinant DNA (rDNA) techniques, in ways
not obtainable through conventional breeding or found in nature. The USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard uses “bioengineered” as the nationwide labeling term.
Detectable modified genetic material in the final food
Created via in vitro rDNA techniques (e.g., gene transfer)
Modifications not achievable through conventional breeding or nature
—seeds / pkt
( ~ g )
Description
The classic heirloom that made dill a kitchen and garden essential. Bouquet Dill (Anethum graveolens) is prized for its aromatic foliage and abundant seed heads, offering that unmistakable, tangy-sweet scent that defines pickling brine and summer feasts alike. Its finely cut blue-green leaves burst with fresh flavor, ideal for seasoning fish, soups, sauces, and salads.
Plants grow upright and graceful, reaching 2–3 feet tall, with early-maturing flower umbels that attract swarms of pollinators. As its name suggests, the blossoms form striking golden “bouquets” that dry beautifully for culinary and ornamental use.
A longtime favorite of both gardeners and chefs, Bouquet Dill’s versatility has made it the gold standard among dill varieties. Its quick growth, fragrant yield, and exceptional adaptability to sandy loam or loamy soil make it perfect for container gardens, raised beds, and open fields alike—an enduring heirloom where aroma and abundance meet.
Light Requirements:
Dill thrives in full sun, needing 6–8 hours of direct light daily for strong, aromatic foliage and full flower development. In hotter climates, light afternoon shade helps prevent premature bolting and preserves leaf quality.
Soil Requirements:
Prefers well-drained, loamy or sandy loam soil rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH is 6.0–7.5. Dill resents heavy clay or compacted soils, which restrict root and taproot growth.
Soil Preparation Tip:
Before planting, loosen the top 8–10 inches of soil and mix in 2–3 inches of compost or aged manure. This creates the soft, fertile conditions dill’s deep taproot requires and improves both drainage and flavor development.
2. Starting Seeds Indoors
Timing:
While dill is best direct-sown, it can be started indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost date in regions with short growing seasons.
Containers and Medium:
Use biodegradable pots or deep cell trays filled with sterile, well-draining seed-starting mix. Dill’s long taproot dislikes disturbance, so transplanting must be done gently.
Sowing Depth:
Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and lightly cover with fine soil. Mist gently to keep the surface evenly moist but never soggy.
Germination Conditions:
Seeds germinate in 10–14 days at a consistent temperature of 60–75°F (16–24°C). Maintain steady warmth and humidity. Avoid sudden drying, which can halt germination.
Light After Germination:
Once seedlings emerge, provide 14–16 hours of bright light daily using grow lights or a sunny window. Maintain good air circulation to prevent damping-off.
3. Transplanting Seedlings
Thinning:
Once seedlings form their first true leaves, thin to one plant per cell or pot. Avoid disturbing neighboring roots when thinning—dill does not recover well from crowding or transplant shock.
Hardening Off:
Gradually expose seedlings to outdoor conditions over 7–10 days, starting with indirect sunlight and shelter from wind.
Transplanting Tip:
Transplant only if absolutely necessary, and do so while plants are still small (under 6 inches tall). Handle carefully to protect the taproot and minimize disturbance.
4. Planting Outdoors
Timing:
Direct sow or transplant outdoors 2–3 weeks before the last frost date. Dill tolerates cool soil and light frost once established.
Planting Depth:
Plant seeds or transplants at the same soil depth they grew indoors, ensuring the crown remains just above soil level.
Spacing:
Bouquet Dill: 8–10 inches apart in rows 12–18 inches apart.
Dukat Dill: 10 inches apart in rows 12–18 inches apart.
Mammoth Long Island Dill: 12 inches apart in rows 18–24 inches apart.
Watering at Planting:
Water thoroughly to settle soil around the roots. Keep soil evenly moist for the first 2–3 weeks to promote deep root establishment.
5. Watering and Moisture Management
Provide 1 inch of water per week through rainfall or irrigation. Dill prefers steady moisture—avoid alternating drought and saturation, which can cause weak stems or bolting.
Apply a 2-inch mulch layer of compost, straw, or leaf mold to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Tip: Water in the morning to keep foliage dry and discourage fungal issues.
6. Temperature and Climate Conditions
Dill grows best in mild to moderately warm weather, ideally between 60–75°F (16–24°C). It tolerates light frost and cool spring temperatures but bolts quickly in prolonged heat above 85°F (29°C).
In warm climates, sow successive crops every 3–4 weeks for continuous harvest through the season.
7. Fertility and Soil Feeding
Dill is a light feeder. Incorporate compost into the soil before planting for baseline fertility.
During the growing season, feed every 4–6 weeks with a diluted organic fertilizer (5-5-5) or compost tea. Avoid excess nitrogen—it promotes weak stems and reduces aroma intensity.
Organic Tip: A midseason feeding of liquid seaweed or kelp extract encourages healthy leaf growth and boosts essential oil production.
8. Direct Sowing
Timing:
For most gardeners, direct sowing is the best method. Sow seeds after soil reaches 55°F (13°C) and all danger of hard frost has passed.
Method:
Sow seeds ¼ inch deep, cover lightly, and keep evenly moist. Thin seedlings once they reach 3–4 inches tall to their proper spacing.
For continuous harvest, succession sow every 3–4 weeks until midsummer.
Tip: In hot climates, plant late summer to early fall for a cooler, more flavorful crop.
9. Mulching and Maintenance
After seedlings establish, mulch around plants to stabilize soil moisture and prevent weeds.
Remove yellowing or bolting plants promptly if not saving for seed. For longer leaf harvests, snip outer fronds regularly to encourage new growth.
10. Pest and Disease Prevention at Planting
Dill is naturally resilient but may attract aphids, spider mites, or leaf miners in warm, humid conditions.
Encourage beneficial insects—especially lady beetles, lacewings, and hoverflies—by allowing a few plants to flower early. Avoid overhead watering and ensure proper airflow to deter fungal growth.
Companion Planting:
Plant near cucumbers, cabbage, onions, and lettuce to repel pests and boost pollinator visits. Avoid planting too close to carrots, as both compete for soil nutrients and space.
How to Grow – Bouquet Dill (Anethum graveolens)
Watering
Provide 1 inch of water weekly, ensuring consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Dill prefers evenly damp soil but does not tolerate sogginess—alternating dry and soaked conditions can cause wilting and stress-induced bolting. Water deeply at the base to strengthen roots and avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal issues such as powdery mildew.
Apply 2–3 inches of mulch around plants using compost, straw, or leaf mold to conserve water, moderate temperature, and prevent rapid drying of sandy loam soils.
Tip: Consistent, deep watering keeps the aromatic oils balanced, enhancing the crisp flavor and fragrance characteristic of Bouquet Dill. Inconsistent watering can yield coarse texture and reduced aroma.
Fertilizing
Bouquet Dill is a light to moderate feeder. Before planting, amend soil with 2 inches of compost or aged manure to enrich fertility. During the growing season, apply a diluted organic fertilizer (5-5-5) every 4–6 weeks to maintain healthy foliage and strong stems. Compost tea or liquid kelp every few weeks also supports essential oil production and leaf color.
Avoid overfertilization—too much nitrogen leads to soft, floppy stems and diluted flavor.
Tip: Balanced soil fertility encourages strong, aromatic leaves and sturdier stems. Leaner soil produces higher essential oil concentration and a more classic dill flavor.
Weeding & Mulching
Weed carefully around the base, as dill has shallow feeder roots that can be easily disturbed. Once plants are established, apply 2–3 inches of mulch to suppress weeds and maintain even soil moisture. Mulching also supports beneficial microbial life and prevents crusting on the soil surface.
Tip: Organic mulch made from compost or decomposed leaves gradually returns nutrients to the soil, keeping plants vigorous while minimizing the need for frequent fertilization.
Sun & Heat Management
Bouquet Dill thrives in full sun (6–8 hours daily) and performs best in temperatures between 60–80°F (16–27°C). In hot regions, provide light afternoon shade to prevent early flowering and maintain softer leaves.
In cooler climates, plant in a location sheltered from strong wind to protect the tall flower umbels from lodging.
Space plants 8–10 inches apart in rows 12–18 inches apart for airflow and easy harvesting. Although Bouquet Dill does not usually require staking, taller plants can benefit from light support to prevent bending during wind or heavy rain.
Thinning early in the season improves airflow, reducing disease pressure and encouraging broader leaf development.
Tip: Consistent thinning allows sunlight to reach lower foliage, extending the harvest period before bolting.
Attract beneficial insects: Flowering dill draws lady beetles, lacewings, hoverflies, and parasitic wasps that help control aphids, thrips, and mites.
Pollinator support: Dill’s bright yellow umbels provide nectar for bees and butterflies, including the Eastern Black Swallowtail.
Companion plants: Pair with cabbage, onions, lettuce, and cucumbers for improved pollination and natural pest resistance. Avoid planting near carrots, which can compete for root space.
Soil biodiversity: Interplant with legumes or leafy greens to enhance nitrogen cycling and balance soil nutrition.
Tip: Let a few plants flower and self-seed—this invites beneficial insects, ensures next year’s volunteer plants, and keeps the ecosystem thriving.
Container Growing
Bouquet Dill grows successfully in containers 10–12 inches deep with nutrient-rich, well-draining potting mix. Ensure consistent moisture—water when the top inch of soil feels dry—and provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Feed with diluted liquid fertilizer or compost tea every 2–3 weeks to maintain leaf production.
Tip: Mulch container surfaces with compost or shredded leaves to mimic natural soil layering, stabilizing moisture and temperature while extending harvest quality.
Season Extension
In mild climates, Bouquet Dill can reseed naturally, reappearing each spring. In colder areas, extend the season by using cold frames or row covers to protect late plantings. Mulch heavily around plant bases with 3 inches of straw or leaf mold in late fall to insulate roots.
For winter harvesting, pot mature plants before frost and bring them indoors to a sunny windowsill or greenhouse.
Tip: Self-sown dill from overwintered seed often germinates earlier, producing hardy, flavorful foliage before other herbs awaken—ensuring an early start to the season’s fresh harvest.
Harvest Bouquet Dill once plants reach about 12 inches tall, typically 40–60 days after sowing. Begin by cutting outer leaves first, allowing the central growth to continue producing fresh foliage. For optimal aroma and essential oil concentration, harvest in the early morning before the sun evaporates the volatile oils.
If growing for leaves, pinch back developing flower buds to delay bolting and extend harvest time. For seed production, allow flowers to mature fully until the seed heads turn brown and dry, then cut and hang them upside down in paper bags to collect seeds as they fall. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time to preserve vitality.
Frequent harvesting promotes bushier plants and prevents early flowering, maintaining the delicate flavor characteristic of Bouquet Dill.
Flavor & Culinary Use:
Bouquet Dill is celebrated for its bright, tangy-sweet flavor and classic aroma—the defining taste of traditional pickles and summer dishes. Its feathery leaves add a fresh, herbal note to fish, soups, salads, and potatoes, while the seeds and flower umbels are essential for pickling cucumbers and vegetables.
Fresh dill enhances sauces, vinaigrettes, and yogurt-based dips, and its subtle anise undertone complements creamy textures and citrus-forward recipes. Use it as a finishing herb to preserve the delicate fragrance and taste, as heat diminishes its oils quickly.
Handling & Storage:
Store freshly cut dill stems upright in a glass of water, loosely covered with a breathable bag in the refrigerator. Under cool, humid conditions, leaves stay fresh for 4–7 days. For longer preservation, freeze chopped dill in ice cube trays filled with olive oil or water.
Drying is possible but reduces aroma; if drying, hang small bundles upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area and store crumbled leaves in airtight containers away from light.
Growth & Maintenance:
Bouquet Dill thrives in well-drained sandy loam or loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. It prefers consistent moisture and full sun, producing best yields in mild, temperate weather. Thin seedlings to 8–10 inches apart for airflow and prevent overcrowding.
Succession-sow every 3–4 weeks for continuous harvest throughout the growing season. Remove spent stems and weeds to improve circulation and discourage fungal diseases. Light compost applications mid-season support sustained leaf production without promoting excessive, weak growth.
Sun & Water Tips:
Provide 6–8 hours of full sun daily for strong, aromatic foliage. In very hot regions, partial afternoon shade helps extend the plant’s vegetative period. Maintain even soil moisture—about 1 inch per week—to prevent stress-related bolting. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of mildew and rot. Instead, water at the base early in the day to allow the foliage to dry naturally.
Seed Saving:
Allow seed heads to fully mature on the plant until they turn brown and begin to dry. Cut the umbels, place them upside down in paper bags, and store them in a cool, dry place until seeds separate easily. Clean and store seeds in airtight containers; they remain viable for 3–5 years.
To preserve genetic purity, isolate dill from other Anethum graveolens varieties by at least 800 feet if possible.
Ecological & Pollinator Notes:
Bouquet Dill’s flat-topped yellow umbels are highly attractive to hoverflies, parasitic wasps, lady beetles, and native bees, supporting a vibrant ecosystem of beneficial insects. The plant is also a primary host for the Eastern Black Swallowtail butterfly, providing food for its larvae and nectar for adults.
Interplanting dill with carrots, cabbage, tomatoes, and cucumbers enhances pollination and repels aphids, spider mites, and hornworms naturally.
Culinary Pairings & Presentation Tips:
Bouquet Dill pairs beautifully with cucumbers, salmon, potatoes, yogurt, eggs, and lemon. Its distinct aroma elevates pickles, sauces, and creamy dressings. Use the feathery fronds as an aromatic garnish or finely chop them into compound butters and herb blends.
For market or kitchen presentation, display dill bunches upright in shallow water with even stem cuts. The delicate fronds and bright golden umbels signal freshness and flavor, inviting both cooks and pollinators to partake in its timeless heritage.
Common Pests & Problems — Bouquet Dill (Anethum graveolens)
Insects & Mites
Aphids (curled foliage, sticky residue, distorted growth)
Controls: Aphids are one of the most common dill pests, particularly during cool, humid weather. Inspect young shoots frequently and rinse infestations with a strong stream of water. For persistent colonies, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5–7 days. Encourage beneficial insects such as lady beetles, lacewings, hoverflies, and parasitic wasps. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization, which creates lush, aphid-prone growth.
Black Swallowtail Caterpillars (Parsley Worms) (chewed leaves and stems)
Controls: These striking caterpillars—green with black and yellow banding—are the larvae of the Eastern Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes), a vital native pollinator species. Their feeding seldom harms mature dill and should not be treated as pest damage. Relocate them gently to alternate host plants like fennel or Queen Anne’s lace rather than removing or killing them. Planting “pollinator rows” of these species helps sustain butterfly populations while protecting your main dill crop.
Leaf Miners (winding white trails or blisters inside leaves)
Controls: Remove and destroy affected leaves immediately to prevent larvae from maturing. Floating row covers can block adult flies from laying eggs. Apply neem oil to deter egg-laying. Encourage beneficial wasps like Diglyphus isaea, a natural parasite of leaf miner larvae.
Cutworms (seedlings severed at the base overnight)
Controls: Protect new transplants with cardboard or foil collars. Clear garden debris and weeds before planting to reduce hiding places. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around stems to deter feeding.
Spider Mites (fine webbing, stippled yellowing leaves, bronzing)
Controls: Mites thrive in dry conditions. Keep plants well-watered and periodically spray foliage with water to raise humidity and remove dust. In severe infestations, apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil weekly until populations subside.
Diseases
Downy Mildew (yellow patches on upper leaf surfaces, gray mold beneath)
Controls: Provide good airflow and water early in the day to allow foliage to dry quickly. Avoid overhead watering. Use copper-based fungicides preventively during cool, wet weather. Remove and destroy infected leaves promptly.
Powdery Mildew (white powdery coating on leaves and stems)
Controls: Space plants 10–12 inches apart to improve air circulation. Water at soil level, avoiding foliage. Organic sulfur or potassium bicarbonate sprays may be used at the first sign of infection. Mulch to reduce humidity and soil splash.
Damping-Off (seedlings collapsing near the soil line)
Controls: Caused by fungal pathogens in wet, poorly drained soils. Use sterile seed-starting mix and avoid overwatering. Ensure adequate airflow and light.
Crown or Root Rot (yellowing leaves, plant wilting, decay at crown)
Controls: Avoid waterlogged or compacted soils. Plant in raised beds or containers with good drainage. Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
Physiological & Environmental Issues
Bolting (premature flowering)
Controls: Dill naturally bolts as part of its life cycle, but heat and drought accelerate it. Maintain consistent soil moisture, mulch to keep roots cool, and harvest leaves frequently to extend the vegetative stage.
Yellowing Leaves (nutrient deficiency or excess moisture)
Controls: Apply a light feeding of compost tea or balanced organic fertilizer monthly. Ensure proper drainage and avoid oversaturation.
Weak or Leggy Growth (low light or overcrowding)
Controls: Provide full sun (6–8 hours daily) and thin crowded seedlings to allow airflow and light penetration.
Monitoring & Prevention — Quick Checklist
Inspect plants twice weekly for aphids, caterpillars, and mildew.
Avoid overhead watering; irrigate at the soil level early in the day.
Maintain consistent moisture and proper drainage to prevent fungal issues.
Rotate dill with non-Apiaceae crops every two years.
Encourage beneficial insects and plant companions such as fennel, yarrow, and chamomile.
Thin overcrowded stands to promote airflow and reduce humidity.
Remove infected or damaged leaves immediately and disinfect tools after use.
Maintain soil vitality through compost enrichment and organic matter renewal.
Q: What is Bouquet Dill?
Bouquet Dill (Anethum graveolens) is a classic heirloom variety prized for its aromatic foliage and large seed heads. Known for its early maturity and rich flavor, it’s the most common type used for pickling and culinary herbs. Its golden flower umbels form elegant “bouquets” that give the variety its name, while attracting pollinators and beneficial insects.
Q: How long does Bouquet Dill take to germinate?
Under ideal soil temperatures of 60–70 °F (15–21 °C), seeds typically germinate in 10–14 Days. Consistent moisture is key, as dill seeds can be slow to sprout if soil dries out.
Q: What soil conditions are best for Bouquet Dill?
This variety prefers sandy loam or loamy soil that is well-drained and moderately fertile, with a pH between 6.0–7.0. Overly rich soil can reduce oil concentration and weaken the herb’s signature aroma.
Q: How much sunlight does Bouquet Dill need?
Full sun is best. Bouquet Dill thrives with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Too little light can cause plants to become leggy and produce fewer flower heads.
Q: Is Bouquet Dill annual or perennial?
Dill is an annual herb, completing its life cycle in one season. However, it readily self-seeds if allowed to flower and drop seed, ensuring a natural succession of plants year after year.
Q: How tall does Bouquet Dill grow?
Plants typically reach 2–3 feet tall, with finely cut blue-green foliage and broad, golden umbels that bloom early and abundantly.
Q: How often should I water Bouquet Dill?
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. About 1 inch per week is sufficient. Avoid overhead watering once plants mature to prevent fungal issues.
Q: Can I grow Bouquet Dill in containers?
Yes. Use a deep container (at least 10–12 inches) with well-draining potting mix. Container-grown dill should be placed in full sun and watered consistently to prevent stress.
Q: How is Bouquet Dill used in cooking?
Its foliage and seeds are culinary staples. Leaves are excellent fresh in salads, fish dishes, and sauces, while the seed heads are used for pickling, soups, and vinegar infusions.
Q: When should I harvest Bouquet Dill?
Harvest leaves as soon as plants are 8 inches tall for peak tenderness and flavor. Collect seed heads once they turn brown and begin to dry on the stem.
Q: Can Bouquet Dill be overwintered?
Dill cannot survive frost, but seeds dropped in fall often sprout naturally the following spring. In mild climates, late-season sowings may overwinter as seedlings.
Q: Are there pests or diseases to watch for?
Aphids, caterpillars, and fungal leaf spots are occasional issues. Promote airflow, water early in the day, and rotate crops annually to prevent buildup.
Q: Can I save seeds from Bouquet Dill?
Absolutely. Allow flower heads to fully mature and dry on the plant, then collect and store seeds in a cool, dark, and dry location. Dill is open-pollinated and self-seeds easily.
Q: Does Bouquet Dill have historical significance?
Yes. Anethum graveolens has been cultivated since ancient times for both flavor and medicine. Introduced to North America by European settlers, Bouquet Dill became the standard American variety by the early 20th century—forever tied to the tradition of summer pickling and homegrown flavor.
History & Culture — Bouquet Dill (Anethum graveolens)
Bouquet Dill is the classic American heirloom that turned dill from a simple herb into a household staple. Its origins trace back to the 19th century, when Anethum graveolens was brought from Europe and quickly naturalized in gardens across the United States. Known for its early flowering and aromatic seed heads, Bouquet became the foundational variety for both home and commercial pickling—a defining flavor of American summer preservation traditions.
The name “Bouquet” reflects its abundant clusters of golden blossoms that form elegant, umbrella-shaped umbels resembling floral arrangements. These blooms not only perfume the air with their bright, tangy scent but also attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making the plant as useful to the ecosystem as it is to the kitchen.
Culturally, dill has ancient roots stretching back to Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where it symbolized vitality and wealth. When immigrants carried dill seeds to the New World, they carried with them a piece of culinary and medicinal heritage that became deeply woven into American foodways. Bouquet Dill, in particular, rose to prominence because of its uniform growth, early maturity, and intense fragrance—traits that made it ideal for mass cultivation and seed trade during the 20th century.
Today, Bouquet Dill endures as the quintessential variety for gardeners, canners, and herbalists alike. Its legacy bridges continents and centuries, uniting Old World flavor with New World ingenuity—a testament to the enduring relationship between people, plants, and the preservation of flavor itself.
Seed Saving — Dill (Anethum graveolens)
1. Selecting Plants for Seed Saving
Choose healthy, vigorous dill plants with strong stems, bright green foliage, and a rich, clean aroma. Prioritize individuals that resist premature bolting, develop uniform umbels, and maintain upright growth. Select from at least 10–15 plants to ensure strong genetic diversity and resilience in your seed stock.
Dill is an annual herb, completing its life cycle in one season. Seed-saving candidates should be left unharvested after flowering begins to allow full seed maturity.
2. Flowering and Pollinator Attraction
Once plants reach full maturity, they produce tall, airy stems crowned with broad, yellow umbrella-like umbels. These blossoms are magnets for hoverflies, lacewings, bees, and parasitic wasps, which aid pollination and maintain a balanced garden ecosystem.
Encourage full flowering to allow natural pollination across multiple plants. The more pollinator activity, the better your seed quality and uniformity.
3. Pollination and Isolation
Dill is insect-pollinated and can cross freely with other Anethum graveolens varieties growing nearby. To preserve varietal purity:
Isolate plants by 800–1,600 feet (250–500 m) from other dill types.
In smaller gardens, cover developing umbels with fine mesh isolation bags that allow airflow but block pollen contamination.
Mark seed-saving plants early to avoid accidentally harvesting them for culinary use.
4. Harvesting Seeds
Harvest when the seed heads turn light brown or tan and seeds begin to dry but before they start shattering naturally. Clip entire umbels on a dry morning and place them upside-down in paper bags or breathable baskets.
Allow umbels to finish drying indoors for 1–2 weeks in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Avoid plastic bags or sealed containers during this stage, as trapped moisture can cause mold.
5. Cleaning Seeds (Organic Methods)
Once fully dry, rub the umbels gently between your hands or over a fine-mesh screen to separate seeds from the chaff. Use winnowing or gentle blowing to remove debris and fine dust.
Optional organic sanitization treatments include:
A 3% hydrogen peroxide soak for 3–5 minutes.
A chamomile tea rinse for mild antifungal protection.
Dry seeds thoroughly again before long-term storage.
6. Drying Seeds
Spread cleaned seeds in a single, thin layer on parchment paper, mesh trays, or ceramic surfaces. Air-dry in a shaded, ventilated space at temperatures below 95°F (35°C) until seeds are hard and crisp.
In humid regions, use a small fan or a low-heat dehydrator (set around 85°F / 29°C) to finish drying evenly.
7. Storing Seeds
Store fully dried dill seeds in paper envelopes for short-term use or in airtight glass jars for long-term preservation. Add a natural desiccant such as silica gel, powdered milk, or baked rice in a small paper pouch to maintain dryness.
Keep seeds in a cool, dark, and dry place (35–45°F / 1–7°C). Properly stored dill seeds retain good viability for 3–5 years. Label all packets with variety name, collection year, and origin.
8. Testing Seed Viability
To test germination:
Place 10 seeds on a moist paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag or covered container.
Keep at 70–75°F (21–24°C) for 10–14 days.
Count the number of germinated seeds.
8–10 = Excellent viability
6–7 = Acceptable (sow slightly thicker)
Below 6 = Replace seed stock next season
9. Preventing Cross-Pollination
If saving more than one dill variety, isolate them by distance or timing—grow one early and another later in the season so they flower at different times. Alternatively, use mesh isolation bags to preserve purity while allowing natural insect pollination.
This documentation ensures that your dill adapts year after year to your unique soil, climate, and pollinator community.
11. Organic Tips for Success
Use rainwater or dechlorinated water for rinsing or soaking seeds.
Compost spent umbels and stalks to recycle nutrients into your garden.
Rotate dill with non-Apiaceae crops every 2–3 years to reduce disease buildup.
Plant nectar-rich companions like fennel, yarrow, and alyssum nearby to attract beneficial insects and improve pollination.
Avoid synthetic seed treatments—natural coatings from compost tea or beneficial microbes promote better vigor and resilience.
Culinary Uses
Bouquet Dill is the standard for both home and commercial kitchens—highly aromatic, early-flowering, and bursting with that signature tangy-sweet dill flavor that defines classic pickling and summer dishes. Its fine, feathery leaves deliver a bright herbal punch that complements everything from seafood to garden vegetables.
Fresh Use:
Finely chop fresh fronds for salads, dressings, and dips. Sprinkle over roasted potatoes, cucumbers, or grilled fish for a refreshing, zesty finish.
Cooking:
Bouquet Dill holds up well in light cooking—add during the last few minutes to soups, stews, and sauces to preserve its fragrance. It’s indispensable for homemade pickles, borscht, potato salad, and dill butter.
Preserving:
This variety is the go-to for pickling brines and vinegar infusions. Its leaves, flowers, and seeds all contribute complex layers of flavor to preserved vegetables and herbal oils.
Preserving and Preparation Methods
Drying: Hang small bunches upside down in a cool, dark place until crisp. Store in airtight jars away from sunlight.
Freezing: Chop and freeze in olive oil or water within ice cube trays for long-term storage.
Herbal Vinegars & Oils: Steep fresh heads and leaves in vinegar or olive oil to make aromatic condiments.
Pickling Brine: Use the entire umbel (flower head) for authentic dill pickles with full-bodied flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
Bouquet Dill is nutrient-rich, offering both culinary and medicinal value:
Vitamins: Excellent source of vitamin C and moderate amounts of vitamin A.
Minerals: Contains calcium, manganese, and iron for bone and circulatory health.
Phytonutrients: High in flavonoids and essential oils that support digestion and calm the stomach.
Antioxidants: Known for anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds such as carvone and limonene.
Regular use of fresh dill helps support healthy digestion and provides a mild detoxifying effect.
Cultural and Practical Benefits
Dill has been cultivated across the Mediterranean Basin and Near East for over 3,000 years. The name “dill” comes from the Norse word dylla, meaning “to soothe,” reflecting its long-standing use as both a culinary and medicinal herb. “Bouquet,” an American selection, became famous for its fast flowering and bold aroma in traditional pickling.
Adaptability: Compact and early, ideal for beds, borders, or pots.
Economic Value: Quick-growing with high yields of both foliage and seed.
Seed Stewardship: Open-pollinated and reliable—excellent for local adaptation and seed saving.
Everyday Benefits and Kitchen Versatility
Bouquet Dill enhances a vast range of dishes:
Pickles: The top choice for traditional cucumber or bean pickling.
Soups & Stews: Adds brightness to creamy potato soup or fish chowder.
Egg & Potato Dishes: Pairs beautifully with deviled eggs, omelets, or roasted potatoes.
Seafood: Perfect for salmon, shrimp, and white fish.
Dressings & Sauces: Key herb in tzatziki, ranch, and lemon-dill sauce.
Pairs best with lemon, garlic, mustard, cucumber, and yogurt—bringing lightness to rich or savory foods.
Environmental and Garden Benefits
Pollinator Attraction: The yellow umbels attract bees, hoverflies, and predatory wasps that help manage pests.
Companion Planting: Excellent near cabbages, onions, and cucumbers; deters aphids and spider mites.
Soil Contribution: Loosens soil with its fine taproot and improves microbial activity.
Wildlife Support: Serves as a host plant for the Eastern Black Swallowtail butterfly, vital to native pollinator networks.
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Soil Readiness
for Dill (Anethum graveolens)
Where to get a soil test
Best option: your state’s Cooperative Extension soil testing lab.
Tip: Arid/alkaline regions (e.g., AZ, NM, UT, parts of CA) often use Olsen (bicarbonate) for phosphorus.
Interprets P by extractant; assumes ppm. Results are approximate.
Enter at least one value above, then Calculate.
Summary
Recommended Amendments (per 100 sq ft)
How to Use
Mix P & K sources into top 3–6″ a week or two before sowing/transplanting.
If pH is low, apply lime 3–4 weeks pre-plant (or fall/winter).
Dill is a light feeder—side-dress only if plants pale: ~0.05 lb N / 100 sq ft.
Add 1–2″ finished compost yearly to build organic matter.
Container mix? Use a peat/coco-based mix with compost and a gentle organic fertilizer; pH is usually already correct.
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Alliance Of Native Seedkeepers
Dill Seeds - Bouquet
$100 USD
$200
Unit price /
Unavailable
Description
The classic heirloom that made dill a kitchen and garden essential. Bouquet Dill (Anethum graveolens) is prized for its aromatic foliage and abundant seed heads, offering that unmistakable, tangy-sweet scent that defines pickling brine and summer feasts alike. Its finely cut blue-green leaves burst with fresh flavor, ideal for seasoning fish, soups, sauces, and salads.
Plants grow upright and graceful, reaching 2–3 feet tall, with early-maturing flower umbels that attract swarms of pollinators. As its name suggests, the blossoms form striking golden “bouquets” that dry beautifully for culinary and ornamental use.
A longtime favorite of both gardeners and chefs, Bouquet Dill’s versatility has made it the gold standard among dill varieties. Its quick growth, fragrant yield, and exceptional adaptability to sandy loam or loamy soil make it perfect for container gardens, raised beds, and open fields alike—an enduring heirloom where aroma and abundance meet.
