Dill Planting Guide
Feathery, aromatic herb used in pickling, fish dishes, and fresh in salads
Best Time and Place to Plant Dill
In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is March 1 to May 1. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Plant Dill in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 60F to 80F, and enough room for 12 inches between plants and 18 inches between rows.
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | May 1 to June 15 | August 1 to August 30 |
| Zone 2 | April 20 to June 10 | August 10 to September 15 |
| Zone 3 | April 10 to May 30 | August 15 to September 30 |
| Zone 4 | April 1 to May 20 | August 20 to October 1 |
| Zone 5 | March 20 to May 15 | August 25 to October 10 |
| Zone 6 | March 10 to May 10 | September 1 to October 20 |
| Zone 7 | March 1 to May 1 | September 10 to November 1 |
| Zone 8 | February 15 to April 20 | September 20 to November 15 |
| Zone 9 | February 1 to April 10 | October 1 to December 1 |
| Zone 10 | January 15 to March 30 | October 15 to December 15 |
| Zone 11 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
| Zone 12 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
| Zone 13 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
Spacing and Care
- Planting depth: 0.25 inches deep
- Spacing: 12 inches apart, 18 inches between rows
- Soil temperature: 60F to 80F
- Sunlight: 6+ hours
- Watering: 1 inch per week; tolerates drier conditions once established
- Days to harvest: 40
Fertilization
- Balanced 10-10-10 synthetic: Light feeding at planting only
- Compost organic: 1 inch worked into soil before planting
Companion Plants
- Cucumbers
- Brassicas
- Onions
Avoid Planting Near
- Tomatoes (mature)
- Fennel
- Carrots
Harvest Signs
- Feathery leaves (dillweed) can be harvested from 8-inch tall plants
- Harvest seeds when flower heads turn brown
- Cut entire stem near base for dillweed
- Allow some plants to self-sow for next season
FAQs
When should I plant Dill?
Dill planting depends on your USDA hardiness zone. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is March 1 to May 1. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
What is the best time of year to plant Dill?
The best time of year to plant Dill is when your zone planting window is open and soil temperatures are around 60F to 80F. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is March 1 to May 1. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Where is the best place to plant Dill?
Plant Dill in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 60F to 80F, and enough room for 12 inches between plants and 18 inches between rows.
How far apart should I plant Dill?
Plant Dill about 12 inches apart, with rows around 18 inches apart.
What grows well with Dill?
Dill is commonly paired with Cucumbers, Brassicas, Onions.