Characteristics:
Quick-growing
herb with fine, ferny leaves on hollow, upright stems up to 3 feet high. Umbrella-like
heads of yellow flowers are great for seasoning or fresh-cut flowers. Growing
Information:
Plant
in full sun and well-drained soil. Space plants 12 inches apart. Plant succession
crops in warm climates. Fertilize when plants start flowering with a sprinkling
of fertilizer high in potassium and phosphorus. Propagation:
Sow
outdoors in fall or spring. Cultivars:
For
compact cultivars, try 'Bouquet' and 'Fernleaf'; for slow-bolting cultivars,
try 'Tetra' and 'Dukat'. Possible
Problems:
Parsley
worms, the striped caterpillars that become black swallowtail butterflies,
love dill. Transfer them gently to a wild Queen Anne's lace plant. Harvesting
and Using:
Harvest
the leaves or cut the entire plant back once it gets to be about 12 inches
tall. Harvest seed when it begins to turn brown. Hang seed heads in a warm,
airy location over a catch cloth. Use fresh, dried, or frozen leaves on fish,
in creamy spreads, with eggs, potato salad, or butter. Use seeds with vegetables,
soups, meats, pickles, and breads.
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