When to Plant Fennel (herb) in Blount County, AL
Herb fennel is grown for its aromatic leaves, stalks, and seeds rather than a bulb. It has a strong anise flavor and its flowers attract beneficial insects.
Blount County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is March 31 and the first fall frost is October 31, giving you a growing season of approximately 214 days.
At an elevation of 56 feet, Blount County receives approximately 54.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Fennel (herb) during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Fennel (herb), but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Fennel (herb) root diseases.
Blount County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Fennel (herb) Planting Timeline — Blount County, AL
Fennel (herb) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 24 | Feb 24 – Mar 10 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 24 | Mar 24 – Apr 7 |
| Direct Sow | March 17 | Mar 17 – Apr 7 |
| Fall Sowing | August 22 | Aug 22 – Sep 5 |
| Harvest | May 26 | May 26 – Aug 4 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–90 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 7a
Growing Season
214 days
Growing Tips for Blount County
Direct sow in spring or fall. Unlike Florence fennel, herb fennel does not form a bulb. Harvest fronds as needed and seeds when they turn brown. Self-sows readily.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Fennel (herb) in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Fennel (herb) in Blount County, AL?
Blount County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of March 31. Plan your Fennel (herb) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Blount County, AL?
Blount County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is March 31 and first fall frost is October 31.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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