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Herb
Dill
Anethum graveolens
A feathery annual herb used for leaves and seeds, and one of the best plants for attracting hoverflies and small predatory wasps. Sow directly in spring or autumn; it doesn't like transplanting. Keep it away from carrots and fennel as they can cross and compete.
- SunFull sun
- Spacing25 cm apart
- First pick6–9 weeks
- FrostHandles light frost
- HeatCopes with some heat
- Sow depth6 mm
When to plant where you live
Checking your area…
Add dill to my gardenVarieties (2)
- BouquetCompact, early, good for both leaves and seed heads
- Dukat (Tetra)Leafy type that's slower to go to seed; best for fresh leaves
Neighbours
Grows well with
Keep away from
From seed to plate
Plant
25 cm apart, seed 6 mm deep. Full sun.
Water
Moderate.
Feed
None needed.
Pick, from about 6 weeks
Snip fronds; collect seed.
Good to know
- Sow directly; seedlings resent root disturbance
- Let some plants flower in the vegetable garden to bring in beneficial insects
- Cut seed heads when seeds turn brown and dry them in a paper bag
Common problems
- Bolting in heatsow in spring and autumn; sow every 3 to 4 weeks
- Aphidshose off; flowering dill soon attracts ladybirds and hoverflies
- Plants falling overgrow in a sheltered spot or stake tall seed heads
If you use a garden chemical, follow the label exactly. Try organic options first, and ask the community or Plant Doctor if you're unsure.
Wildlife
Good for: bees, insects.
Where this information comes from
- Gardenate: Growing Dill (comparison) (germination, medium confidence, checked 27 Oct 2026)
- ABC Gardening Australia fact sheets (growing, low confidence)
- Sustainable Gardening Australia: planting guides (sowing window, low confidence)
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Dill (non-toxic) (toxicity, high confidence, checked 27 Oct 2026)
Reviewed by AI cross-check (Claude), not a horticulturist on 27 Oct 2026. Version 2.