Fennel

Sweet bulbous Florence fennel is a plant with many health benefits. Firstly, it is rich in fibre, antioxidants and vitamins, making it an excellent food for digestion and for boosting the immune system. What's more, Florence bulbous fennel has a subtle aniseed flavour that goes perfectly with many dishes. It can be eaten raw in salads or cooked to accompany meat or fish.

To grow Florence sweet bulbous fennel, we recommend sowing it directly in the ground, at a depth of 1 to 2 cm, from April onwards. It is important to ensure that the plants are about 30 cm apart to allow the bulb to develop properly. The plant prefers rich, well-drained, sunny soil. It can also be grown in a pot, making sure that the pot is deep enough to allow the bulb to form.

Caring for Florence sweet bulbous fennel is relatively simple. It requires regular watering, especially in dry weather, to prevent the bulb from hollowing out. It is also advisable to mulch the base of the plant to prevent weeds from growing and to keep it moist. Finally, we recommend regular hoeing to aerate the soil and encourage the bulb to grow.

The harvesting period for Florence sweet bulb fennel is generally between July and September, when the bulb is well formed and has reached a sufficient size. It should be picked early in the morning, before the heat softens the bulb. To eat, cut off the stalks and leaves and store the bulb in the fridge to preserve its freshness. Florence sweet bulbous fennel can be kept for a few days once picked, but it's best to eat it quickly to enjoy all its flavours and health benefits.