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
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( ~ g )
Description
A refined European heirloom celebrated for its intense flavor and lush foliage. Dukat Dill (Anethum graveolens) stands out for its sweeter, richer aroma and higher essential oil content than common varieties, making it a favorite for both fresh herbs and dried seasoning. Its finely feathered, deep green leaves bring brightness to fish, potatoes, soups, and bread, capturing that pure, anise-like dill essence prized in Scandinavian and Eastern European cuisines.
Plants grow dense and bushy, typically 18–24 inches tall, producing abundant foliage before sending up delicate yellow flower umbels that draw bees and beneficial insects. Thriving in loamy or sandy loam soil, Dukat matures early yet holds longer before bolting, extending the fresh harvest window.
Developed in Denmark, this dill embodies balance—rich in flavor, beautiful in form, and resilient in the garden. Whether snipped fresh or dried for storage, Dukat offers that perfect blend of sweetness and strength, making it the gourmet’s choice among dill varieties.
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 – Dukat Dill (Anethum graveolens)
Watering
Provide 1 inch of water weekly, maintaining steady, even moisture throughout the growing season. Dukat Dill is sensitive to inconsistent watering—dry soil followed by heavy soaking can cause wilting, flavor loss, and premature bolting. Always water deeply at the base of the plants rather than overhead to prevent fungal diseases on the fine foliage.
Apply 2–3 inches of mulch (compost, straw, or leaf mold) around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Mulching is especially useful for sandy or fast-draining soils common in herb gardens.
Tip: Dukat’s rich, sweet flavor develops best in consistently moist soil. Uneven watering can make the leaves coarse and reduce the essential oil content that gives it its signature aroma.
Fertilizing
Dukat Dill performs best in moderately fertile soil. Before planting, mix 2–3 inches of compost or aged manure into the top 6 inches of soil. During growth, apply a balanced organic fertilizer (5-5-5) or compost tea every 4–6 weeks to maintain lush, aromatic foliage.
Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can cause overly soft, weak stems and diminish leaf flavor. Instead, favor balanced nutrition that supports essential oil development and plant sturdiness.
Tip: A light midseason feeding with compost tea or diluted seaweed extract strengthens stems and intensifies aroma without promoting overgrowth.
Weeding & Mulching
Weed regularly during early stages, as Dukat’s fine seedlings can be easily overshadowed. Once established, mulch with 2–3 inches of organic matter to suppress weeds, stabilize moisture, and foster healthy soil life.
Be gentle when hand-weeding—Dukat’s shallow roots are easily disturbed.
Tip: Mulching not only prevents weeds but also helps maintain the slightly cool, moist conditions Dukat prefers, extending leaf quality well into midsummer.
Sun & Heat Management
Provide 6–8 hours of full sun daily. Ideal temperatures are 60–75°F (16–24°C). In very hot regions, partial afternoon shade protects plants from heat stress and reduces the risk of early flowering.
Excessive heat above 85°F (29°C) shortens the vegetative phase, while cooler, bright conditions yield stronger aroma and leaf structure.
Tip: Plant Dukat alongside taller crops like tomatoes or corn to provide light shade in midsummer, helping prolong its harvest life and keep foliage tender.
Spacing & Support
Space plants 8–10 inches apart in rows 12–18 inches apart to ensure airflow and healthy growth. Dukat’s compact, bushy nature typically requires no staking, though taller plants in rich soil may benefit from light support to prevent leaning in wind or rain.
Thin overcrowded stands early to improve airflow, reduce disease pressure, and maximize leaf yield.
Tip: Consistent thinning and pruning keep plants sturdy, balanced, and productive, preventing overcrowding that invites pests.
Attract beneficial insects: Flowering Dukat Dill attracts lady beetles, hoverflies, and parasitic wasps that prey on aphids, thrips, and other soft-bodied pests.
Pollinator support: Umbel blooms are rich in nectar for bees and butterflies, including the Eastern Black Swallowtail, which relies on dill-family plants for its larvae.
Companion plants: Grow near cabbage, lettuce, onions, and cucumbers for natural pest deterrence. Avoid planting directly next to carrots to prevent root competition.
Soil biodiversity: Interplant with legumes or spinach to balance nutrient use and support beneficial soil microbes.
Tip: Allow a few plants to flower and set seed each year—this sustains pollinator activity and encourages natural reseeding for the next growing season.
Container Growing
Grow Dukat Dill successfully in containers 10–12 inches deep filled with well-draining, compost-rich potting soil. Keep soil consistently moist, watering when the top inch feels dry. Container-grown plants dry quickly, so check moisture daily during hot weather.
Feed every 2–3 weeks with diluted compost tea or organic liquid fertilizer.
Tip: Mulch container surfaces with leaf mold or fine compost to maintain cool soil and prevent rapid moisture loss—an easy way to extend freshness and leaf quality.
Season Extension
In cooler climates, extend the growing season using row covers or cold frames to protect plants from early frosts. In mild climates, Dukat can overwinter and self-seed naturally.
Before frost, harvest mature plants or pot them up and bring indoors to a sunny window or greenhouse for fresh winter herbs. Mulch heavily with 3 inches of straw or compost around outdoor plants to insulate the root zone.
Tip: Overwintered Dukat plants produce highly aromatic spring foliage before flowering—the early harvest offers some of the most concentrated flavor of the season.
Additional Tips — Dukat Dill (Anethum graveolens)
Harvesting:
Begin harvesting Dukat Dill once plants reach 8–10 inches tall, typically 45–55 days after sowing. Snip outer leaves first, allowing inner growth to continue producing fresh foliage. For peak essential oil content and sweetness, harvest in the early morning before the day’s heat reduces aromatic intensity.
To prolong the harvest period, pinch off emerging flower buds if you wish to delay bolting. However, if you plan to save seeds, allow a few flower heads to mature naturally. Harvest seed umbels once they turn tan or brown and feel dry to the touch. Frequent cutting encourages bushier plants and delays flowering, ensuring a longer yield of tender greens.
Flavor & Culinary Use:
Dukat Dill is prized for its sweet, rich aroma and high essential oil content, delivering a smoother, less sharp flavor than common dill varieties. It excels in Scandinavian, Baltic, and Eastern European dishes—adding depth to pickles, cured fish, potato salads, and creamy sauces.
The fresh fronds are superb in soups, herb butters, omelets, and salads, while seeds lend a subtle, nutty sharpness to spice blends and bread. Its tender leaves retain excellent flavor even when dried or frozen, making it a versatile herb for year-round culinary use.
Handling & Storage:
Store freshly cut Dukat Dill stems in a glass of water inside the refrigerator, loosely covered with a breathable plastic bag. It remains fresh for 5–7 days. For long-term storage, finely chop and freeze the leaves in ice cube trays with water or olive oil to preserve color and flavor.
If drying, hang small bundles in a dark, airy room until completely crisp, then store in airtight containers away from light and heat. Dried Dukat maintains more flavor than most dill types due to its naturally high oil content.
Growth & Maintenance:
Dukat thrives in loamy or sandy loam soil with moderate fertility and a pH of 6.0–7.0. Space plants 8–10 inches apart to promote airflow and reduce fungal issues. Keep soil evenly moist, especially during germination and early growth.
Apply compost or a diluted fish emulsion midseason to sustain vigor, but avoid excessive fertilization that encourages soft, pest-prone foliage. Succession-sow every 3–4 weeks to ensure a steady supply throughout summer. Remove spent stems promptly to redirect energy into fresh leaf production.
Sun & Water Tips:
Provide 6–8 hours of sunlight daily for best aroma and oil development. In hot southern regions, partial afternoon shade helps prevent bolting and leaf scorching. Maintain steady moisture—around 1 inch of water weekly—without saturating the soil.
Mulch around plants with straw or compost to retain moisture, moderate temperature, and suppress weeds. Always water at the base early in the day to avoid fungal problems on the foliage.
Seed Saving:
Allow the plant to flower and produce umbels naturally. Harvest seed heads when they turn brown and begin to dry, cutting them before they shatter. Hang umbels upside down in paper bags to collect falling seeds. Clean and store seeds in airtight containers in a cool, dark place.
Dukat Dill’s seeds remain viable for 3–5 years. To maintain genetic purity, isolate by at least 800 feet from other dill varieties.
Ecological & Pollinator Notes:
Dukat’s fragrant blooms are magnets for pollinators and beneficial insects, including bees, hoverflies, and lacewings. These visitors help manage aphids and leaf miners naturally while supporting the lifecycle of the Eastern Black Swallowtail butterfly, which relies on dill-family plants as larval hosts.
Plant Dukat alongside carrots, cabbage, lettuce, or tomatoes to attract beneficial insects and deter pests. Its flowers are especially valuable for supporting mid-summer pollinator activity when other nectar sources are scarce.
Culinary Pairings & Presentation Tips:
Dukat’s refined sweetness pairs perfectly with seafood, new potatoes, eggs, cream sauces, and lemon. It enhances pickles, dressings, and Scandinavian-inspired dishes like gravlax and dill butter.
Use fresh fronds generously as a garnish or fold them into herbed cheeses and soups for a delicate finish. For market or display, bundle stems neatly and stand them upright in shallow water to preserve freshness—their fine, emerald leaves and fragrance convey both quality and authenticity at a glance.
Common Pests & Problems — Dukat Dill (Anethum graveolens)
Insects & Mites
Aphids (sticky residue, distorted leaves, stunted tips)
Controls: Aphids are frequent visitors to Dukat’s lush foliage. Monitor young plants closely and rinse small infestations with a strong stream of water. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5–7 days for heavier populations. Encourage natural predators like lady beetles, lacewings, and hoverflies. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers, which encourage tender, aphid-attracting growth.
Black Swallowtail Caterpillars (Parsley Worms) (chewed leaves on mature plants)
Controls: These vibrant green caterpillars with black and yellow bands are larvae of the Eastern Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes), a beneficial pollinator species. Their feeding rarely harms mature dill and should not be treated with pesticides. If necessary, relocate them gently to nearby host plants like fennel or Queen Anne’s lace. Consider dedicating a small patch of these plants to sustain butterfly life cycles without reducing your main harvest.
Leaf Miners (white, winding tunnels inside leaves)
Controls: Remove infested leaves promptly and destroy them to stop the larvae from maturing. Use floating row covers early in the season to exclude adult flies. Neem oil applications can deter egg-laying, and parasitic wasps like Diglyphus isaea naturally reduce infestations.
Spider Mites (fine webbing, leaf bronzing, stippling)
Controls: Mites appear in hot, dry weather. Mist plants lightly or hose them off to increase humidity and dislodge mites. Maintain steady moisture and apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil weekly if necessary. Avoid drought stress, which makes infestations worse.
Cutworms (seedlings cut off at soil level overnight)
Controls: Use cardboard collars around stems of new transplants. Keep garden beds weed-free and remove debris to reduce larval shelter. Apply diatomaceous earth around plants to discourage nighttime feeding.
Diseases
Downy Mildew (yellow patches above, gray fuzz below leaves)
Controls: Ensure good airflow by proper spacing. Water early in the day to let foliage dry. Apply copper-based fungicides as a preventive measure during prolonged wet or humid weather. Remove and discard affected foliage immediately.
Powdery Mildew (white powdery coating on upper leaves)
Controls: Space plants well and water at the soil level. Use organic sulfur or potassium bicarbonate sprays at the first sign of infection. Maintain even moisture to prevent stress-related outbreaks.
Damping-Off (seedlings collapsing soon after germination)
Controls: Caused by fungi in overwatered or compacted soil. Use sterile potting mix for sowing, avoid overwatering, and provide adequate light and ventilation for young seedlings.
Crown Rot (soft, darkened crown with wilting foliage)
Controls: Prevent by ensuring good drainage. Avoid planting in heavy or compacted soils. Let the top inch of soil dry slightly between waterings and avoid overwatering during cool periods.
Physiological & Environmental Issues
Bolting (premature flowering)
Controls: Dukat naturally bolts as part of its life cycle, but stress, heat, or drought accelerate it. Maintain consistent moisture, provide afternoon shade in very hot climates, and harvest foliage regularly to extend leaf production.
Yellow or Pale Leaves (nutrient deficiency or excess water)
Controls: Apply compost or a balanced organic fertilizer monthly to restore vigor. Avoid standing water or poor drainage, which limits root oxygen.
Leggy Growth (low light or overcrowding)
Controls: Grow in full sun and thin plants to proper spacing (8–10 inches). Avoid crowding that restricts airflow and light penetration.
Monitoring & Prevention — Quick Checklist
Inspect plants twice weekly for aphids, leaf miners, and mildew.
Water at the soil line early in the day to reduce humidity on leaves.
Maintain consistent moisture but avoid overwatering.
Rotate dill crops with non-Apiaceae species every two years.
Support beneficial insects with nearby companion plantings of yarrow, fennel, and coriander.
Thin dense stands for airflow and apply mulch to reduce soil splash.
Remove and destroy diseased foliage immediately.
Keep soil rich and balanced through composting and organic matter renewal.
Q: What is Dukat Dill?
Dukat Dill (Anethum graveolens) is a refined northern European heirloom bred in Denmark for its sweet, aromatic foliage and high essential oil content. It’s considered a “gourmet” dill variety, known for producing lush leaves with a softer, richer flavor ideal for fresh use, drying, and freezing.
Q: How long does Dukat Dill take to germinate?
Seeds germinate in 10–14 Days under optimal conditions of 60–70 °F (15–21 °C). Keep soil consistently moist during germination, as dryness can delay sprouting or cause patchy emergence.
Q: What soil conditions are best for Dukat Dill?
Dukat thrives in loamy or sandy loam soil that drains well yet retains light moisture. Soil pH between 6.0–7.0 is ideal. Avoid heavy clay or compacted soils, as they can restrict root growth and weaken aroma development.
Q: How much sunlight does Dukat Dill need?
Full sun—at least 6–8 hours daily—is necessary for strong growth and oil-rich leaves. In very hot climates, light afternoon shade helps prevent premature bolting.
Q: Is Dukat Dill annual or perennial?
Like all dill varieties, Dukat is an annual herb, completing its life cycle within a single growing season. However, it readily self-seeds if allowed to flower and drop mature seed.
Q: How tall does Dukat Dill grow?
Plants grow 18–24 inches tall, compact and bushy compared to taller varieties, making them excellent for small gardens and container growing.
Q: How often should I water Dukat Dill?
Keep soil evenly moist but never soggy. About 1 inch of water per week is sufficient. Water at the base of plants to reduce leaf disease risk.
Q: Can I grow Dukat Dill in containers?
Yes. Dukat’s compact growth habit makes it ideal for containers 10–12 inches deep. Ensure good drainage and consistent watering, especially during hot, dry periods.
Q: How is Dukat Dill used in cooking?
Its mild, sweet flavor pairs beautifully with seafood, potatoes, soups, and Scandinavian dishes. The fresh foliage can be used in salads, sauces, and butters, while the seeds are perfect for seasoning and pickling.
Q: When should I harvest Dukat Dill?
Harvest leaves when plants are 8–10 inches tall and before flowering for peak flavor. For seed collection, allow flower heads to dry and turn brown before cutting.
Q: Can Dukat Dill be overwintered?
Dukat cannot survive frost but may self-seed in mild climates, returning naturally in spring. In colder regions, collect seeds in fall and resow when soil warms.
Q: Are there pests or diseases to watch for?
Aphids, leaf miners, and powdery mildew can appear. Space plants well, maintain airflow, and avoid overhead watering to prevent issues.
Q: Can I save seeds from Dukat Dill?
Yes. Let seed heads fully mature and dry on the plant, then shake or rub them free. Store in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. Seeds remain viable for 3–5 years.
Q: Does Dukat Dill have historical significance?
Indeed. Dukat represents the evolution of traditional European dill breeding, developed to capture the sweet, clean essence central to Nordic cuisine. Its name—taken from the gold coin once symbolizing value and purity—reflects its reputation as the finest-quality dill, treasured by cooks and gardeners alike for both heritage and flavor.
History & Culture — Dukat Dill (Anethum graveolens)
Dukat Dill traces its lineage to northern Europe, where generations of gardeners and chefs have cultivated it for its heightened sweetness and superior essential oil content. Bred in Denmark as a refinement of traditional dill lines, Dukat emerged during the 20th century as a premium culinary herb—valued for its lush green foliage, delicate texture, and prolonged leaf stage before bolting. It was designed for both professional kitchens and home gardens, meeting the demand for fresh, fragrant dill that retained flavor even when dried.
Historically, Anethum graveolens was revered across the ancient Mediterranean and Near East, where it served as a symbol of good fortune and healing. The herb was mentioned in Egyptian medical texts as early as 1500 BCE and later used by the Greeks and Romans to flavor food and perfume oils. In Scandinavia, dill became an inseparable part of regional cuisine, its bright, anise-like flavor defining dishes from gravlax to new potatoes. Dukat arose from this long tradition of selective cultivation, embodying the pursuit of purity and aromatic intensity.
Culturally, the variety represents a union between the old-world heritage of dill and the modern horticultural quest for quality and consistency. Its name, “Dukat,” derives from the old gold coin of Europe—a fitting emblem for a variety often considered the “gold standard” among dills. To this day, it remains a gardener’s treasure for its sweetness, resilience, and unmistakable aroma, standing as a living heirloom of northern Europe’s culinary and agricultural legacy.
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.
Uses and Benefits — Dukat Dill (Anethum graveolens ‘Dukat’)
Culinary Uses
Dukat Dill is celebrated as the sweetest and most flavorful of all dills, bred in Northern Europe for exceptional leaf quality and higher essential oil content. Its lush, finely cut foliage delivers a delicate, almost buttery aroma—ideal for fresh use and gourmet cooking alike.
Fresh Use:
Best enjoyed raw, Dukat’s soft, fragrant leaves elevate green salads, potato dishes, egg recipes, and creamy dressings. Sprinkle over roasted vegetables, smoked salmon, or cold pasta salads for a refined herbal finish.
Cooking:
Dukat retains its aroma well in low-heat dishes. Add near the end of cooking to soups, stews, or sauces for a mild, sweet dill note without bitterness. It’s particularly prized in Scandinavian and Baltic cuisines for use in gravlax, butter sauces, and herbed potatoes.
Preserving:
While less pungent than Bouquet, Dukat’s refined flavor makes it perfect for light pickles, herb butters, and infused vinegars. Both leaves and seeds are excellent for seasoning fish or vegetables for storage.
Preserving and Preparation Methods
Drying: Air-dry fronds in small bunches in shade or use a low-heat dehydrator below 95°F (35°C).
Freezing: Freeze chopped dill in olive oil or water within ice cube trays for year-round use.
Infused Butter: Blend finely minced leaves with soft butter and lemon zest for seafood dishes.
Vinegar Infusion: Steep flowering heads and foliage in white wine vinegar for mild herbal infusions.
Nutritional Benefits
Dukat Dill combines exquisite taste with notable health properties:
Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A and C for immune and vision support.
Minerals: Contains calcium, manganese, and potassium to support bone and heart health.
Essential Oils: High in carvone and limonene, offering digestive and antimicrobial benefits.
Antioxidants: Contributes polyphenols that protect cells from oxidative stress.
Its gentle aroma and nutrient density make it a natural digestive aid and a soothing culinary herb for daily use.
Cultural and Practical Benefits
Originating from Scandinavian and Eastern European breeding programs, Dukat represents centuries of dill cultivation refined for sweetness, leaf density, and cool-weather performance. Known as “Sweet Dill” or “Tetra Dill,” it is a tetraploid variety with broader leaves and more concentrated oils.
Adaptability: Excels in cooler climates and thrives in both raised beds and containers.
Economic Value: Produces high yields of fragrant foliage, ideal for cut-herb markets and fresh kitchen harvests.
Seed Stewardship: Open-pollinated and genetically stable—ideal for local seed-saving and regional adaptation.
Everyday Benefits and Kitchen Versatility
Dukat Dill shines in fresh and delicate applications:
Salads: Blends perfectly into cucumber, egg, or potato salads.
Seafood: Enhances gravlax, shrimp, and lemon-dill sauces.
Dressings & Dips: Key herb in tzatziki, yogurt dips, and buttermilk dressings.
Vegetable Dishes: Complements asparagus, beets, carrots, and zucchini.
Herb Butters & Sauces: Ideal for compound butters and creamy fish sauces.
Pairs gracefully with lemon, cream, mustard, and garlic for refined, clean-tasting dishes.
Environmental and Garden Benefits
Pollinator Attraction: Produces nectar-rich umbels that attract bees, hoverflies, and beneficial parasitic wasps.
Companion Planting: Excellent near cabbage, lettuce, and onions; deters aphids, mites, and some caterpillars.
Soil Health: Supports soil biodiversity through its light taproot system and decomposes easily to feed microorganisms.
Wildlife Benefit: Serves as a larval host for the Eastern Black Swallowtail butterfly, making it valuable in pollinator-friendly gardens.
Shipped from U.S.A.
Our seeds are grown and sourced from the US. They're then packed and shipped from Colerain NC.
Triple tested
We regularly test the quality and germination rate of our seeds. We're so confident that our seeds are backed by a 1 year warranty!
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 - Dukat
$100 USD
Unit price /
Unavailable
Description
A refined European heirloom celebrated for its intense flavor and lush foliage. Dukat Dill (Anethum graveolens) stands out for its sweeter, richer aroma and higher essential oil content than common varieties, making it a favorite for both fresh herbs and dried seasoning. Its finely feathered, deep green leaves bring brightness to fish, potatoes, soups, and bread, capturing that pure, anise-like dill essence prized in Scandinavian and Eastern European cuisines.
Plants grow dense and bushy, typically 18–24 inches tall, producing abundant foliage before sending up delicate yellow flower umbels that draw bees and beneficial insects. Thriving in loamy or sandy loam soil, Dukat matures early yet holds longer before bolting, extending the fresh harvest window.
Developed in Denmark, this dill embodies balance—rich in flavor, beautiful in form, and resilient in the garden. Whether snipped fresh or dried for storage, Dukat offers that perfect blend of sweetness and strength, making it the gourmet’s choice among dill varieties.
