Thompson & Morgan Herb Chervil Seeds - 750 Seeds

Easy for all to grow, curled Chervil is a hardy annual herb for all-year-round culinary use. Widel...

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This guide is for home gardeners seeking an easy-to-grow, all-year-round culinary herb. Thompson & Morgan Herb Chervil Seeds offer a hardy annual with a rich, savoury flavour reminiscent of caraway, perfect for enhancing fish and meat dishes. While versatile, optimal flavour and growth are best achieved with dappled or semi-shade conditions.

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Model Part Number23674
BrandThompson & Morgan

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FAQs

When is the best time to sow chervil seeds?

You can sow chervil seeds outdoors from March to August. For a continuous supply, make regular sowings every few weeks. Sowings made in late summer can provide fresh leaves through winter if grown in a greenhouse or indoors.

What kind of soil does chervil prefer?

Chervil prefers well-prepared, fertile, moist soil. Good drainage is also important to prevent root rot, but it should not be allowed to dry out completely.

Can I grow chervil in full sun?

Chervil prefers dappled or semi-shade. Full sun, especially during hot periods, can cause it to bolt quickly and may result in a less intense flavour. A location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal.

How far apart should I plant chervil seedlings?

After sowing and when seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them out to approximately 15cm (6 inches) apart to allow them space to grow into healthy, bushy plants.

How many seeds are in a packet?

Each packet contains approximately 750 chervil seeds.

What is the flavour of chervil like?

Chervil has a rich, savoury flavour that is often compared to caraway. It has subtle anise notes and is a popular herb for adding complexity to dishes.

How do I harvest chervil?

Harvest chervil by snipping the stems as needed. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more leaves and grow bushier. Avoid taking more than one-third of the plant at any one time.

Troubleshooting

Seeds not germinating

Ensure seeds are sown at the correct depth (1cm), soil is kept consistently moist, and the location is not receiving excessive direct heat or sunlight. Older seeds may have reduced viability.

Seedlings are weak or leggy

Provide adequate light but avoid scorching direct sun. Ensure soil is fertile and well-drained. Thin seedlings to the recommended spacing (15cm) to allow for proper growth.

Plant bolts prematurely (goes to seed)

This is often caused by heat stress or irregular watering. Ensure the plant is in dappled/semi-shade and maintain consistent soil moisture. Harvest regularly to delay bolting.

Leaves are pale or yellowing

This could indicate poor soil fertility or insufficient moisture. Amend soil with compost or ensure regular watering. While chervil prefers semi-shade, prolonged deep shade can also affect colour.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Easy to cultivate, suitable for beginners.
  • Provides a continuous harvest throughout the growing season.
  • Versatile herb for various culinary applications.
  • Durable and hardy, tolerating a range of conditions.
  • Offers a unique flavour profile that enhances many dishes.

Cons

  • Requires specific light conditions (dappled/semi-shade) for best results.
  • May require thinning to ensure adequate space for growth.
  • Best flavour is achieved when used fresh; does not store well long-term.
  • Seed germination can be dependent on consistent moisture.
  • Flavor can be milder in very hot conditions.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Sowing Outdoors:

  1. Prepare a fertile, moist soil in a location that receives dappled or semi-shade.
  2. Sow seeds thinly at a depth of 1cm (1/2 inch) in drills spaced 30cm apart.
  3. Water gently after sowing.
  4. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them to 15cm (6 inches) apart.
  5. Make regular sowings every few weeks for a continuous harvest.

Sowing Indoors:

  1. Use pots filled with standard seed compost.
  2. Sow seeds thinly on the surface and cover lightly with compost.
  3. Water gently and place on a bright windowsill, ideally in indirect light.
  4. Keep soil consistently moist.

Compatibility:

Chervil is an annual herb and does not have specific compatibility issues with other plants when grown in the garden. It thrives best in soil that is well-drained but remains moist, indicating good compatibility with typical garden soil mixes. It performs well in containers or raised beds, provided adequate watering is maintained.

Care:

  • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogging.
  • Light: Prefers dappled or semi-shade; direct, intense sun can cause it to bolt (go to seed) prematurely and reduce flavour.
  • Soil: Thrives in fertile, well-drained soil.
  • Harvesting: Harvest leaves regularly by snipping stems. Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth.
  • Pest & Disease: Generally pest and disease resistant, but watch for aphids in warmer conditions.