​Fennel Florence

​ (Foeniculum dulce)

This Fennel, the bulbous roots of which are such a
favourite vegetable in Italy, is not very satisfactory to
grow. Seed should be procured, if possible, 
from Italy every season. Seed that has ripened 
in this country is more likely to be successful, i.e to
form bulbous roots, if sown in July. The bulbous roots,
in any case, do not develop well except in hot summers 
and the plants must be given a considerable amount of
moisture. Sow the seed in drills half an inch deep and 
thin the plants to 15 inches apart. It is also safer to sow
seed from Italy in July, otherwise the plants are apt to run
to flower.