Curved Chervil Growing Guide

Curled Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium), also known as French parsley, is a delicate annual herb with finely divided, curly leaves. It has a mild, anise-like flavor that is a delightful addition to salads, soups, and sauces. Often used in French cuisine, chervil is a key ingredient in the classic herb blend "fines herbes." Growing curled chervil is easy and rewarding, providing a fresh, aromatic herb for your culinary creations.

   

 

Planting Curled Chervil

Sunlight: Choose a location that receives partial shade, especially in warmer climates. Chervil prefers cooler conditions and can tolerate full sun in cooler regions.

Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and drainage.

When to Plant: Chervil is a cool-season herb that can be planted in early spring or fall. Sow seeds directly in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked in spring, or in late summer for a fall crop.

Direct Sowing: Sow seeds directly in the garden 1/4 inch deep and 6 inches apart in rows spaced 12 inches apart. Chervil has a tendency to bolt in hot weather, so choose a cool, shaded spot for summer sowings.

Succession Planting: For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season.

 

Caring for Curled Chervil

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water chervil regularly, especially during dry periods. Mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilization: Chervil benefits from moderate feeding. Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting time. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flavor.

Mulching and Weeding: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil temperature consistent. Hand-pull weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the shallow roots of the chervil.

Pest and Disease Management: Chervil is relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally suffer from aphids and fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Harvesting Curled Chervil

When to Harvest: Chervil can be harvested as soon as the plants have several sets of true leaves, typically 4-6 weeks after planting.

How to Harvest: Harvest individual leaves as needed by pinching off the outer leaves first, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. For a larger harvest, cut the entire plant 1-2 inches above the soil level. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and helps prevent bolting.

Storing and Using Chervil

Storing Fresh Chervil: Freshly harvested chervil can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Place the stems in a glass of water and cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag. Chervil does not dry well, so for longer storage, it is best to freeze the leaves.

Culinary Uses:Chervil's mild, anise-like flavor enhances a variety of dishes. Use it fresh in salads, soups, sauces, and as a garnish for fish and poultry. It is a key ingredient in "fines herbes," a classic French herb blend.

Benefits of Growing Curled Chervil

Prolonged Harvest: Regular harvesting encourages new growth and prolongs the harvest period.

Nutrient-Rich: High in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants.

Versatile Use: Adds a delicate flavor to a variety of culinary dishes.

Easy to Grow: Suitable for beginners and thrives in cooler, shaded conditions.

 

Growing Curled Chervil in your garden ensures a continuous supply of fresh, aromatic leaves throughout the growing season. Enjoy the mild, anise-like flavor and numerous health benefits of this versatile and easy-to-grow herb!