Dill
Anethum graveolens
Fennel
Foeniculum vulgare
Dill vs Fennel: Similar Herbs with Different Growing Needs
Comparing dill and fennel for container gardens. Learn the differences between these lookalike herbs and which is better for your growing conditions.
Quick Comparison
| Criteria | 🌿Dill | 🌿Fennel | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | easy | moderate | Dill |
| Days to Harvest | 40 days | 65 days | Dill |
| Container Size | 8 inch pot | 10 inch pot | Dill |
| Sunlight | full sun | full sun | - |
| Water Needs | moderate | moderate | - |
| Yield | Higher | Lower | Dill |
| Beginner-Friendly | ⭐ Yes | Moderate | Dill |
Key Differences
Plant Type
Annual. Quick crop, single season. Succession plant for continuous supply.
Perennial. Returns year after year but needs dedicated space.
Days to Harvest
40-60 days for leaves, 85 days for seeds. Very fast growing.
65-90 days for fronds, 90-115 days for bulb. Slower maturing.
Container Requirements
8-inch pot sufficient. Shallow root system.
Needs 10-12 inch deep pot. Deep taproot requires depth.
Companion Planting
Good companion for cucumbers, cabbage, lettuce.
Poor companion - inhibits most other plants. Grow alone.
Flavor Profile
Fresh, tangy, slightly grassy. Classic pickle flavor.
Sweet licorice/anise flavor. More complex, distinctive taste.
Edible Parts
Leaves (fronds) and seeds both used. Seeds for pickling.
Fronds, seeds, and bulb (Florence fennel) all edible.
Best for Dill
Choose Dill if:
- You want quick harvests in 40 days
- You love pickles and seafood dishes
- You have smaller containers available
- You prefer cool-season growing
- You want easy, fast-growing herbs
Best for Fennel
Choose Fennel if:
- You love the distinct licorice flavor
- You want bulbs, fronds, and seeds
- You cook Mediterranean and Italian cuisine
- You have large dedicated containers
- You want perennial herbs that return
Can They Grow Together?
No, keep them separate
Never grow dill and fennel together - they can cross-pollinate, resulting in poor seed quality and off-flavors. Fennel also releases chemicals that inhibit dill growth. Keep in completely separate containers.
The Bottom Line
Dill
Choose dill for quick, easy growing, classic pickle flavor, cool-season production, and smaller container requirements.
Fennel
Choose fennel for unique licorice flavor, perennial growth, triple harvest (bulb, fronds, seeds), but only if you have dedicated container space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is easier to grow: Dill or Fennel?
Dill is generally easier to grow in containers. It requires less maintenance and is more forgiving of mistakes.
Which grows faster: Dill or Fennel?
Dill reaches harvest maturity faster, typically in 40 days compared to 65 days for Fennel.
Can I grow Dill and Fennel together?
No, it's not recommended. Never grow dill and fennel together - they can cross-pollinate, resulting in poor seed quality and off-flavors. Fennel also releases chemicals that inhibit dill growth. Keep in completely separate containers.
Which needs less space: Dill or Fennel?
Dill requires less space with a minimum container size of 8 inch pot, making it better for small balconies and windowsills.
Which produces more: Dill or Fennel?
Dill typically produces more harvest per plant over the growing season, making it better for maximum yield in limited space.
Which is better for beginners: Dill or Fennel?
Dill is more beginner-friendly due to its forgiving nature and easier care requirements. It's a great first plant for new container gardeners.
What are the main differences between Dill and Fennel?
The key differences include: plant type, days to harvest, container requirements. See the detailed comparison above for complete differences.
Should I choose Dill or Fennel for my balcony?
Choose dill for quick, easy growing, classic pickle flavor, cool-season production, and smaller container requirements. Choose fennel for unique licorice flavor, perennial growth, triple harvest (bulb, fronds, seeds), but only if you have dedicated container space. Consider your space, sunlight, and what you want to grow when making your decision.
Related Plant Guides
Complete Dill Growing Guide
Learn everything about growing Dill in containers.
Complete Fennel Growing Guide
Learn everything about growing Fennel in containers.
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