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Can You Grow Florence Fennel in New Mexico?

US · USDA Zone 7b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a

Grows well here

Florence fennel grows well here — it likes warm days and cool nights for bulb development.

Plant zones

4a–9b

New Mexico last frost

late February

New Mexico first frost

early December

Days to harvest

65–90 days

When to plant Florence Fennels in New Mexico

Direct sow

Feb 28

Harvest

May 4 – May 29

Dates are approximate, based on New Mexico's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Florence Fennel

Florence fennel produces an anise-flavored bulb at the base — sliced raw into salads or roasted, it is a Mediterranean staple. Note: fennel inhibits nearby plant growth, so keep it isolated in the garden.

Direct sow after last frost — fennel dislikes transplanting. Sow 1/4 inch deep, thin to 12 inches. Keep soil consistently moist while bulbing. Harvest when bulbs are 3 inches wide. Do NOT plant near tomatoes or peppers.

Full florence fennel growing guide →

Gardening in New Mexico

New Mexico has an arid continental climate. Albuquerque is Zone 7a; Santa Fe is Zone 6b; southern desert areas are Zone 8a-9a. Low humidity means dramatic temperature swings.