Dill
Anethum graveolens
Also known asDill weed · Garden dill · Aneth
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 3–11 (winter low around -40°C)
- Frost
- tolerates light frost
- Season
- cool (spring/fall)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rockwool (Mineral wool) | alkaline until pre-soaked | very high | low |
| Expanded clay pebbles (LECA) | neutral / inert | low | high |
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
| Net pot, no medium (Bare-root) | - | - | - |
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0.6 |
| vegetative | 3 | 1 | 2 | 1.4 |
Aquaponics suitability
Compatible
Fish waste provides enough nitrogen for healthy growth. Supplemental potassium, calcium, and iron may still be needed depending on fish stocking density.
Care notes
A fast-growing hydroponic herb that bolts relatively quickly but produces usable product at all stages. EC 1.0-1.8 mS/cm. pH 5.5-6.5. Temperature: 15–25°C (cool to moderate; bolts faster in heat but tolerates warm conditions better than cilantro or chervil). Moderate to high light (DLI 14-20 mol/m2/day). NFT, DWC, or media bed systems work. From seed to first leaf harvest: 4-6 weeks. The leaves (dill weed) are harvested by snipping fronds from the stems. Once the plant produces flower heads, leaf production slows; the flower heads and green seeds are also useful in the kitchen (green dill seed is excellent in pickles and fish dishes). Each planting lasts 6-10 weeks before bolting. Succession plant every 3-4 weeks for continuous leaf supply. Compact varieties ('Fernleaf', 'Dukat') are better suited to hydroponic systems than tall garden types because they bolt slower and stay more compact. The main pest is aphids, which cluster on the tender new growth and flower heads. For pickle-making season, time a large planting to mature when your cucumbers are ready for harvest.