Florence
Apiaceae
Fennel
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Florence fennel, named for the Italian city, has been cultivated since the 17th century. It was developed from wild fennel to produce a swollen, bulbous leaf base.
Florence fennel (finocchio) is well-suited to the PNW when grown in spring or fall. Our mild temperatures produce sweet, tender bulbs. Avoid the summer heat window — it will bolt. Two plantings (April and July) give two harvests. Fennel fronds and pollen are bonuses. Bronze fennel (the ornamental variety) also produces excellent fronds and pollen but smaller bulbs.
Direct sow in April for summer harvest, or July for fall harvest. Fennel bolts in heat — spring and fall are the sweet spots. Sow 1/4" deep, 4 seeds per sq ft. Thin to 8-12" apart. Keep evenly moist; drought stress causes bolting and tough bulbs. When bulbs reach 2-3" at the base, hill soil around them for 2 weeks before harvest to blanch and sweeten. Harvest when bulbs are 3-4" across by cutting at soil level. The feathery fronds are an herb — harvest any time. Allow a few plants to flower for fennel pollen (culinary gold).