Fennel - $3 pre-order and member price; $4 at plant sale

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is an aromatic perennial herb in the carrot family, prized for its distinct licorice or anise-like flavor. Every part of the plant—the bulb, stalks, leaves (fronds), flowers, pollen, and seeds—is edible and used in diverse cuisines worldwide Key Growing Requirements Sunlight: Fennel requires full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily. Soil: Use fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.5 to 8. Watering: Consistent moisture is crucial, especially for Florence fennel to prevent it from "bolting" (going to seed prematurely). Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Planting and Spacing Timing: Plant in spring after the last frost or in mid-to-late summer for a fall crop. Fall crops often produce better bulbs because they mature in cooler weather. Spacing: Space plants 6 to 12 inches apart, with rows about 18 inches apart. Companion Planting Warning: Fennel is allelopathic, meaning it can inhibit the growth of nearby plants like tomatoes, beans, and peppers. Plant it in a dedicated spot or in large, deep containers to avoid affecting neighbors.