Elephant

Dill

65d to harvest

Fragrant and boldly aromatic, Elephant Dill unfurls feathery fronds with a rich, fresh “dillweed” perfume that fills the garden on warm days. Expect tender, finely textured foliage and a classic, bright dill flavor that shines in everything from pickles to creamy sauces and herb-forward garnishes. With dependable performance to harvest in about 65 days, it’s a standout choice for gardeners who want lush, showy growth and reliable harvests.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 10b, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	—
Climate	Frost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Oct 1st
Harvest Begins	Dec 5th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	65
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Surface
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	40
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most often affects Anethum graveolens (dill), and how can I fix it?

Dill is commonly hit by aphids, which cluster on tender new growth and can cause distorted leaves. Spray plants with a strong stream of water, then apply insecticidal soap if aphids persist for more than a few days. Keep foliage dry by watering at the soil line, because damp conditions can also worsen foliar fungal issues.

How often should I water Anethum graveolens during the main growing phase?

Water dill so the top 1 inch of soil stays evenly moist during active growth, typically about 1–2 times per week depending on heat and rainfall. Let the soil surface dry slightly between waterings, but don’t allow it to fully dry out, since dill quickly gets stressed and may bolt. Use a gentle, direct-to-soil method to avoid wetting the leaves.

How do I tell when Anethum graveolens is ready to harvest?

For fresh dill, start harvesting leaves once plants are about 6–8 inches tall and continue picking regularly to keep growth tender. For seeds, wait until flowers form umbels and the seed heads turn tan and begin to dry, usually around 65 days from sowing. Cut the seed umbels on a dry day and let them finish drying indoors before threshing.