Fennel, Bronze (Foeniculum vulgare 'Purpureum').

Fennel, Bronze (Foeniculum vulgare 'Purpureum').

Bronze fennel is a decorative and edible herb with a rich history dating back to the Mediterranean region. It has been revered by ancient Greeks and Romans for its culinary and medicinal properties, including its use in various dishes and as an aid for digestion. This variant of the common fennel, known for its attractive purple-bronze foliage, became popular in the 16th century and has been a staple in ornamental gardens and as a flavoring agent in cooking ever since.

To grow bronze fennel from seed, follow these steps:

1. Choose the right time to plant and prepare the seeds by storing them in a refrigerator for 2-4 weeks before planting. Once the stratification period is over, plant the seeds in well-drained soil, either directly in the garden or in small pots for transplanting later. Fennel prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

2. Provide proper conditions: Keep the soil moist but aerated and not soaked. Fennel germinates best in temperatures between 50°F (10°C) and 70°F (21°C). Thin the seedlings after sprouting, which can take up to 14 days.

3. Transplant seedlings: Wait until the plants are 4-6 inches tall and have at least two sets of true leaves before transplanting them into the garden. Harden them off gradually by exposing them to outdoor conditions for a week before the final move.

4. Maintain your fennel plants: Fennel can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide, so it needs room to spread out. Fertilize the plants regularly and control pests and diseases using companion planting with herbs like dill and mint.

5. Harvest the leaves and stems of bronze fennel once the plants are established, using them in various dishes. To propagate bronze fennel, deadhead the flowers before they go to seed or cut them back after blooming.
Leaving plants to flower and seed is a positive bonus for a discerning eye, and more importantly for exacting and all too rare, pollinators.