Finochio Or Azorean Fennel (Anethum azoricum), does not usually succeed in this country. Neither is it in much esteem here, being agreeable to few palates. It is served with a dressing like salads.

Soil And Situation

For the first crop a rich light soil on a moderate hot-bed must be selected; for the succeeding sowings a more retentive one, but for the last two a return must be had to a drier and a warmer situation. A small bed will be required only at each sowing; one twenty feet by four is sufficient for the largest family.

Time And Mode Of Sowing

From the beginning of March until the close of July, at intervals of a month, for after attaining its full growth, it immediately advances for seed. The seed is sown in drills two feet asunder, to remain; scattered thinly, that is, about two inches apart, and about half an inch below the surface. The first sowings must be in a slight hot-bed, and under a frame. The seedlings must be small-hoed, to kill the weeds, from which they should be kept completely clear throughout their growth; but at first only thin to three or four inches asunder, as it cannot thus early be determined which will be the most vigorous plants. After the lapse of another month they may be finally thinned to seven or eight inches distance from each other. Moderate waterings are required throughout their growth during dry weather; and in the meridian of hot days the beds are advantageously shaded, until after the plants are well up. When of advanced growth, about ten weeks after coming up, the stems must be earthed up to the height of five or six inches, to blanch for use, which will be effected in ten or fourteen days. In the whole about twelve or fourteen weeks elapse between the time of sowing and their being fit for use.

In autumn, if frosty mornings occur, they should have the protection of some litter or other light covering.

To Obtain Seed

The seed coming from Italy is generally worthless, and in this country it is saved with difficulty, the plants of the last sowings, if left, being killed by the winter; and if some of the earliest are allowed to remain, they never ripen until late in the year, and are often killed by early severe frosts.