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Can You Grow Florence Fennel in Wisconsin?

US · USDA Zone 5a · zones 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–9b

Wisconsin last frost

mid-April

Wisconsin first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

65–90 days

When to plant Florence Fennels in Wisconsin

Direct sow

Apr 15

Harvest

Jun 19 – Jul 14

Dates are approximate, based on Wisconsin'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 Wisconsin

Wisconsin has a cold humid continental climate. Milwaukee is Zone 5b-6a; northern Wisconsin is Zone 4a-5a. Cold winters but warm productive summers. Known for dairy farming and cold-hardy crops.