How to grow Chervil?
- Latin Family: Apiaceae
- Latin Genus: Anthriscus
- Ease of Growing: Moderate
- Growing Type: Annual
Chervil's lacy leaves are finely cut and light green, as delicate and dainty as their flavor is subtle. The classic herb is essential in French "fines herbs" mixtures and is often used as a Tarragon substitute. Chervil has a refined taste reminiscent of Anise and Parsley, delicious in salads or to highlight sauces, sautés and soups. Hard to find in U.S. markets, Chervil is an important herb for kitchen gardeners to grow - its special flavor rewards your efforts many times over. Good plant for succession sowing.
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Chervil History
Chervil is native to Western Asia and Eastern Europe and has naturialized in some parts of North America. The plant has been used since at least the Middle Ages for medicinal and culinary purposes. In Victorian times, the Chervil plant was a symbol of sincerity.
Soil Preference
- PH (min/max): 5.0 - 8.0
- PH Ideal (min/max): 6.5 - 7.0
Chervil needs rich, moist soil for lush growth.
How to care for Chervil?
Protect Chervil from strong winds and summer sun. This can be easily accomplished by intercropping with taller plants.
Water
Keep Chervil well watered.
Fertilizer
Chervil needs rich soil. Fertilize every 2 to 3 weeks with a high nitrogen source or liquid fish emulsion solution.
Seeds
Seed Viability: 1 - 3 years
Germination Percentage: 70.0
Chervil is self-pollinating, and can be cross pollinated by insects. It easily self-seeds; but if you want to save the seed, let the heads and seeds dry on the plant. Put the whole seed head in a bag and let it dry to stop the seeds from dispersing.
Light
Part shade
For the best quality Chervil, plant in partial shade.
Conditions:Cool, Warm
Season:Short Season, Long Season
Storage
You can make Chervil butter to preserve the flavor. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, or freeze it to keep for longer.
Storage Req: Freezer, Refrigerator
Storage Temp: 32-40°F
Storage Length: 1-180 days
Purée fresh Chervil and add a splash or two of water and freeze in ice cube trays.
Storage Req: Freezer
Storage Temp: 32°F
Storage Length: 1-180 days
Problems
Chervil Types
- Chervil
Chervil's lacy leaves are finely cut and light green, as delicate and dainty as their flavor is subtle. The classic herb is essential in French "fines herbs" mixtures and is often used as a Tarragon substitute. Chervil has a refined taste reminiscent of Anise and Parsley, delicious in salads or to highlight sauces, sautés and soups. Hard to find in U.S. markets, Chervil is an important herb for kitchen gardeners to grow - its special flavor rewards your efforts many times over. Good plant for succession sowing.
Pests
- Aphids
- Slugs and snails
- Groundhog
- Rabbits
- Gophers
- Deer
Diseases
- Powdery Mildew
Related Plants
Greens, Juicing
Sprouts
Seacale
Kohlrabi
Collards
Anise
Caraway
Cumin
Cauliflower
Culantro