Fennel

In the herb corner: this month I am focusing on...Fennel both common fennel and bronze fennel are grown for the stems, leaves and seeds they produce. Young stems can be chopped and provide a flavourful crunch to salads. The leaves can also be finely chopped over salads or indeed over cooked vegetables. For a ready supply through the winter you can freeze the leaves. They can also be used to infuse oil. I like using the seeds when making bread but you can also use them to add flavour to sauces and casseroles. Grow fennel in a hot dry spot and you will have a plant with fewer leaves but retaining all the aromatic properties. Grown in a more fertile soil, with a bit more moisture, and your plants will produce a lot more foliage with a more subtle flavour. Fennel attracts hover flies which predate on whiteflies – a pot of fennel at the door of your greenhouse or poly tunnel (or indeed under a window where your prized houseplants live) will help keep whitefly at bay. You can buy 75 seeds for 50p

	Fennel, Bronze Bronze tinged feathery foliage with a light and airy habit allow you to grow this as a stunning border plant. For culinary use the leaves can be chopped and added to the same dishes as dill. It is loved by bees and beneficial insects. Price for 50 seeds 0.75	0.75 GBP Plus shipping and handling
	Available from stock
	Fennel, Common (OS) This is not the same a Florence Fennel listed in our veg range. This herb has fern like leaves which provide you with an aniseed flavouring. This is a perennial. Price for 50 seeds	0.50 GBP Plus shipping and handling
	Available from stock