Herb of the Month: Dill

The first thing that comes to mind when I think of dill is pickles. Although, dill is used for a variety of reasons. From various culinary uses and some possible medicinal* uses, it is also a host plant for caterpillars. This lovely plant tastes great, smells great, adds height and texture to the garden and serves many purposes; a definite must have for any herb or butterfly garden! Read on to learn more...

Growth Habit
Dill is a fast growing, cool weather annual that will reseed itself if left to flower. It has loose, feathery, blue-green leaves with fine yellow flowers in the summer; the seeds are a pale brown color. It loves full sun and works well in the back of an herb garden. In addition, it makes a great addition to butterfly gardens as it is a host plant for caterpillars. Like most herbs, the leaves of the dill plant can be used both fresh and dried. Planting Tips: Best not to grown near fennel. Plant dill after the last frost has passed and the ground has been given a chance to warm up a bit.

Popular Uses

*Note: We do not support medicinal uses of herbs and are not suggesting they should be used as such. Contact your physician for further information.

- Help to promote sleep
- Digestive Aid
- Freshen Breath
- Leaves are used in dips, to make flavored butter, soup, salad, fish and egg dishes.
- Seeds are used to pickle cucumbers and cabbage.
- Ground seeds can be used as a salt substitute.
- Deer Resistant Plant
- Host plant for the Black Swallowtail Butterfly, among others.

Just for Fun
- Native to the Mediterranean region.
- Greeks used dill to promote sleep and prevent hiccups.
- Dill is mentioned in the Bible.
- Dill was used to keep witches at bay, yet was also used in spells to help with your love life.

Happy Herb Gardening!
Pegi R.
Fairview Greenhouses & Garden Center