Chervil Seeds

Anthriscus cerefolium is a fast-growing Hardy Annual (H3). It is a "cool-season" crop; unlike heat-loving herbs such as basil, Chervil requires lower temperatures to thrive. If exposed to intense mid-summer heat or dry conditions, the delicate foliage will turn purple and the plant will "bolt" (run to seed) almost immediately.

The "Successional" Rule: Because Chervil has a rapid and short life cycle, we recommend against sowing the entire packet at once. For a constant culinary supply, sow a small batch every 3-4 weeks. This strategy ensures a steady harvest of tender, anise-flavoured leaves from spring through to late autumn.

Decorative Edging: Beyond its culinary value, Chervil is highly ornamental. Its pale green, lacy, fern-like leaves provide a delicate texture that makes it an excellent decorative edging plant for shady borders or woodland-style kitchen gardens.

Chervil possesses a long, sensitive taproot and highly resents being moved; for this reason, direct sowing is the most reliable method for success.

How to Sow:
Direct sow outdoors from March to August. For winter harvests, sow in a greenhouse or cold frame in September. Scatter seeds thinly into drills approximately 1cm deep. Germination typically occurs within 14-21 days. If sowing in containers, ensure they are deep enough to accommodate the taproot.

Where to Plant:
They demand partial shade and thrive in cool, moisture-retentive soil. During the height of summer, position Chervil behind taller crops or on the north-facing side of a fence to shield it from the midday sun. Consistent moisture is vital; if the soil dries out, the plant will bolt prematurely.

Ongoing Care:
Regular harvesting of the outer leaves will encourage the plant to continue producing fresh growth from the centre. For the best flavour, leaves should be used raw or added to cooked dishes at the very last second, as heat quickly destroys the subtle aniseed volatile oils.

Chervil is the perfect "understorey" plant for the shady vegetable patch. Pair it with these available partners from our range:

• 🥬 Lettuce & Salad Leaves: The Cool Club. Both Chervil and lettuce thrive in shady, moist corners and share a deep dislike for summer heat. Planting them together creates a lush, green edible carpet where the ferny Chervil foliage provides a beautiful textured backdrop to lettuce rosettes.
• 🌿 Parsley: The Ferny Cousins. Often called "French Parsley," Chervil shares similar cultural requirements with Flat Leaf Parsley. Together they form a robust, low-maintenance herb bed for partial shade, providing the essential backbone for professional French cooking.

Sow little and often from spring through to late summer for a year-round harvest of sophisticated, anise-flavoured leaves.