Why is My Fennel Not Producing Bulbs?
Fennel is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, many gardeners struggle to get their fennel to produce bulbs. If you’re one of those gardeners, read on to learn the reasons why your fennel may not be producing bulbs and what you can do to fix it.
Reasons Why Fennel May Not Be Producing Bulbs
- Wrong type of fennel: There are two types of fennel: Florence fennel and Foeniculum vulgare. Florence fennel is the type that is grown for its bulbs. If you have planted Foeniculum vulgare, it will not produce bulbs.
- Planting too late: Fennel needs cool summer days to produce bulbs. If you plant fennel too late in the season, the days will be too warm and the plant will bolt, which means it will produce flowers instead of bulbs.
- Inconsistent watering: Fennel needs consistent moisture to produce bulbs. If the soil dries out, the plant will bolt.
How to Get Fennel to Form Bulbs
There are a few things you can do to increase your chances of getting your fennel to produce bulbs:
- Choose the right variety: There are a number of Florence fennel varieties that are known for their bulb production. Some good choices include Montebiano, Mantovano, and Parma Sel Prado.
- Plant at the right time: Fennel should be planted in the spring or fall. In warm climates, it can also be planted in the summer.
- Water regularly: Fennel needs consistent moisture to produce bulbs. Water the plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot weather.
- Fertilize: Fennel benefits from being fertilized regularly. Use a balanced fertilizer and follow the directions on the package.
- Hill the soil around the bulbs: As the fennel bulbs begin to grow, they will tend to push up out of the soil. To prevent this, hill the soil around the bulbs, just as you would a leek. This will help to keep the bulbs white and tender.
Harvesting Fennel Bulbs
Fennel bulbs are ready to harvest when they are about the size of a tennis ball. To harvest, dig up the bulb and cut off the roots and top. The bulbs can then be stored in a cool area for several weeks.
Troubleshooting
If you’re following all of the tips above and your fennel still isn’t producing bulbs, there may be another problem. Here are a few things to check:
- Soil pH: Fennel prefers soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, it can affect the plant’s ability to produce bulbs.
- Pests and diseases: Fennel can be susceptible to a number of pests and diseases. These pests and diseases can damage the plant and prevent it from producing bulbs.
- Nutrient deficiency: Fennel may not be producing bulbs if it is deficient in certain nutrients. A soil test can help you determine if your soil is deficient in any nutrients.
If you’re still having trouble getting your fennel to produce bulbs, you may want to contact your local Cooperative Extension office for advice.
