Fennel is an evergreen perennial which is usually grown as an annual in South Africa. However, in frost free regions fennel can be treated as a short lived perennial. In the cooler regions of South Africa, fennel seed can be sown from spring to autumn.
Because hot temperatures and humidity tend to induce bolting, in the rest of the country fennel is an excellent intermediate to cool season crop, sown in late summer or early spring before the weather gets too hot.
The fennel plants need to grow fast in order to produce the best quality bulbs and leaves so the beds need to be well prepared with lots of added compost or manure and a dressing of organic 2.3.2. Funnel crops sown in autumn may take up to 20 weeks to mature.
Planting
* Plant fennel seeds 1 to 3cm deep.
* Fennel plants can reach up to 1-5m and need some room to spread.
* Space fennel plants at least 50cm apart, with about 60cm between the rows.
* Protect fennel plants from extreme heat and wind.
* Water well until well established.
Fennel Health Benefits
* Fennel is good for digestion.
* Fennel is useful in the treatment of anemia.
* Fennel is extensively used for treating constipation, diarrhea, renal colic, respiration and menstrual disorders.
* Fennel helps in increasing iron absorption.
* Fennel is good for bone health.
* Fennel helps lowering blood pressure.
* Fennel may reduce getting cancer.
* Fennel boost immune power.
* Fennel helps in weight management.
* Fennel is good for skin health.
Type of Funnel
When it comes to selection a certain type of funnel, you can choose from the herb or bulb variety – both share a sweet aniseed flavor. Common fennel is widely available as a herb, but bronze fennel is well worth adding to your farming operation.
