Fennel can be propagated from seed, cuttings, or from the base of a bulb.
From seed
- Sow seeds in the garden in early spring after the last frost.
- Cover seeds with 1/4 inch of soil.
- Space seedlings 10–12 inches apart in rows 18–24 inches apart.
- Water frequently after shoots appear.
- Protect the bulb from the sun by hilling soil around it once it begins to develop.
From cuttings
- Choose a healthy stem.
- Make a clean cut with sterilized scissors.
- Remove lower leaves to prevent rot.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Create a hole in the soil with a pencil.
- Insert the cutting and gently firm the soil.
- Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
- Place in a sheltered spot with indirect light.
- Water consistently, but avoid waterlogging.
From the bulb
- When cutting up fennel for cooking, leave the base and a small amount of the attached bulb intact.
- Place the base in a shallow dish, glass, or jar of water with the base facing down.
- Place the dish on a sunny windowsill.
- Change the water every couple of days.
- After a little more time, new roots should start to sprout.