How to Grow Dill in Australia
A cool-season herb crop for the home garden
Growing your own Dill is one of the more satisfying things you can do in an Australian backyard.
This guide covers when to plant Dill in your region, the position and soil it likes, how to sow and space it, day-to-day care, the pests and diseases to watch, and how to harvest and store your crop.
When to Plant in Your Region
Dill is a cool-season crop, half-hardy (it takes light frost but not a hard freeze). In subtropical South-East Queensland it is sown in March, April, May, June, July, August and September. Timing shifts with your climate, so choose your region below for a local calendar.
Position and Soil
Give Dill full sun (at least 6 hours a day). It does best in free-draining soil with a pH around 6 to 7.5. Dig through plenty of compost before planting, and mulch to hold moisture and keep weeds down.
Sowing and Spacing
Sow seed on the surface, barely covered. Thin or space plants to about 25 cm apart. Seedlings usually appear in around 14 days, fastest when the soil is between 15 and 22 degrees.
Cool-season only, bolts fast in heat. Sow direct (doesn't like transplanting). The seed heads are great in pickling.
Care
Water consistently, roughly 3 L per plant every 3 days in warm weather, less in cool or wet spells. Feed every few weeks through the growing season with a balanced organic fertiliser, and keep mulch topped up.
Pests and Diseases
Keep an eye out for Aphids. The main diseases to watch are Powdery mildew. Good spacing, watering at the base rather than over the leaves, and crop rotation prevent most problems. See our Pest and Disease Guide to identify and fix any issue.
Harvesting and Storage
Dill is typically ready to harvest in around 60 days (about 2 months).
In the Kitchen
Nutritionally: aids digestion and reduces bloating and contains antioxidants and minerals.
Companion Planting
Dill grows well alongside Cabbage, Onion and Corn. Keep it away from Carrot and Fennel. Our Companion Planting Guide has the full pairings.
Track Your Dill Growing
Add dill to your garden in the Planting Season app and get reminders for planting, care and harvest, tuned to your region.
Open the App →Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Dill in Australia?
Dill is a cool-season crop. In subtropical regions like South-East Queensland it is sown in March, April, May, June, July, August and September. Timing changes with your climate, so use the calendar above for your region.
How long does Dill take to grow?
Dill is generally ready to harvest in around 60 days (about 2 months).
How much sun does Dill need?
Give it full sun (at least 6 hours a day) for the healthiest growth and best harvest.
See also: Dill in the Plant Library
