Properly sited and planted, dill is so fast-growing that some of its foliage is mature enough to be harvested in only eight weeks. Plan to sow several crops in succession, three weeks apart, to assure a supply over the entire growing season. Dill does best in full sun (with a bit of afternoon shade in the South). While fairly tolerant of poor soil conditions, it prefers a sandy or loamy soil that drains well. It is a light feeder, so extra fertilizer is not necessary in a reasonably fertile soil.
To sow seeds directly into the garden in rows, trace shallow ¼ to ½ inch deep indentations in the soil with a stick or pencil to guide planting. Then dribble the tiny seeds through your thumb and forefinger into the indented rows. Mixing them first with some dry sand distributes them more evenly. Firm soil over the rows of seeds and water softly. Expect to see sprouts in 10 to 14 days. For a more naturalistic planting, scatter the seeds over a patch of ground; cover with 1/2 inch of soil, and water. When growing from seed, reduce crowding by pulling up weak, spindly sprouts to allow 2 to 6 inches of space between them.
Choose an overcast day or wait until late afternoon to plant homegrown or commercially raised young seedlings so they will not have to cope with hot sun as they overcome transplant shock. Dig holes in the prepared soil in the planting area about the size of the containers the seedlings are growing in. Space the plants 8 to 10 inches apart if harvesting leaves, or 10 to 12 inches apart if harvesting seed. Gently pop each seedling from its container by tapping it on the bottom of the pot. Take great pains to avoid disturbing the taproot that has formed. Set a plant in each hole and firm the soil over the rootball and around its stem to support it. Water immediately. Shield new transplants from bright sun the first day or two while they cope with the shock of transplanting. Depending on the variety, these fast-growing dill plants will grow to maturity and set seed in about 60 days.
Dill prefers fairly moist soil throughout the growing season. Once plants have established good root systems, water only when rainfall is sparse if your soil is decent and mulched. In thin, poor and unmulched soil, dill needs watering a couple of times a week when it does not rain. If possible, avoid overhead watering in favor of a drip or porous hose system.
Spread a 2 to 4 inch layer of mulch on the soil around the plants when they are about 6 inches tall to discourage competing weeds. Mulch also helps keep soil moist and contributes organic matter to the soil as it gradually breaks down over the season. As the mulch decomposes in the summer heat, add more to maintain optimal mulch depth.
