Fennel

Fennel is a plant that just doesn't get along with other plants. Many plants don't like it, and it has a harmful effect on bush beans, caraway, kohlrabi, and tomatoes.

The seeds smell and taste like anise or licorice, and the root part can be cooked as a vegetable. The leaves have an anise-like flavor and the stems can be eaten like celery. Fennel seeds can be made into a tea for colicky babies; and peppermint and fennel tea is delicious for everyone.

If you do plant it, make sure it is away from the garden by itself, and never near coriander or wormwood (Artemisia). Coriander seems to prevent fennel from setting seed, and even a small amount of wormwood prevents fennel from germinating.

Plant fennel seeds directly into the garden about 1/8" deep about 6 to 12" apart. Fennel prefers well drained soil and full sun. Heavy clay soils will hinder seed growth. The beds should be kept moist for 2 weeks or until the first leaves appear. Take care then not to over water. Fennel grows 3-4 feet high.