Winter Chervil Culinary Herb Heirloom Seeds
Chervil is easy to grow from seed, but it requires cool, moist conditions.
In hot weather or dry soil, the plants will bolt (flower and set seed) rather than produce lush leaves for harvest. For that reason, aim to grow chervil during the coolest part of your growing season. Also, a semi-shaded location, such as tucked between other plants, can help shield chervil from the heat of the midsummer sun. Chervil prefers light soil that retains moisture, so be sure to work in plenty of compost.
In Zone 6 and north, plant chervil in early spring for harvest into summer. In Zones 7 and south, plant it in late summer to early fall for harvest throughout winter and spring. Although chervil is quite hardy, it will need some protection—such as a row cover—when temperatures drop below freezing in fall. Or, simply plant chervil directly in a cold frame in the fall for harvest throughout the winter.
Chervil is an intriguing herb. Many do not appreciate its unique scent and taste, but every herbalist and gourmet should grow it at least once. Try chervil this year—you’ll be charmed by its dainty appearance and delicate flavor.
Plant 3 weeks before the last spring frost for a summer harvest, or after the heat of summer for a fall crop (particularly in the South). Surface sow and gently press seeds into the soil in rows 14" apart, thin plants to 12" as soon the seedlings appear. Germination should take place in 7-12 days.
Chervil is easy to grow from seed, but it requires cool, moist conditions.
In hot weather or dry soil, the plants will bolt (flower and set seed) rather than produce lush leaves for harvest. For that reason, aim to grow chervil during the coolest part of your growing season. Also, a semi-shaded location, such as tucked between other plants, can help shield chervil from the heat of the midsummer sun. Chervil prefers light soil that retains moisture, so be sure to work in plenty of compost.
In Zone 6 and north, plant chervil in early spring for harvest into summer. In Zones 7 and south, plant it in late summer to early fall for harvest throughout winter and spring. Although chervil is quite hardy, it will need some protection—such as a row cover—when temperatures drop below freezing in fall. Or, simply plant chervil directly in a cold frame in the fall for harvest throughout the winter.
Chervil is an intriguing herb. Many do not appreciate its unique scent and taste, but every herbalist and gourmet should grow it at least once. Try chervil this year—you’ll be charmed by its dainty appearance and delicate flavor.
Plant 3 weeks before the last spring frost for a summer harvest, or after the heat of summer for a fall crop (particularly in the South). Surface sow and gently press seeds into the soil in rows 14" apart, thin plants to 12" as soon the seedlings appear. Germination should take place in 7-12 days.
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