Scientific Name: Pimpinella anisum

Plant Type: Annual herb

Sunlight: Full sun

Soil: Well-draining, loamy soil

Water: Moderate; avoid overwatering

Seed Depth: 1/4 inch

Seed Spacing: 6-8 inches

Days to Germination: 7-14 days

Maturity: 120 days

Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth.

Soil Type: Prefers well-draining, loamy soil enriched with organic matter.

When to Plant: Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost date when the soil temperature is above 50°F.

Direct Sowing: Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in rows, spaced 18 inches apart. Cover lightly with soil and water gently.

Indoor Sowing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost in biodegradable pots to prevent root disturbance when transplanting.

Succession Planting: Not typically required as anise grows slowly and has a long growing season.

Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, but ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging.

Thinning: Thin seedlings to 6-8 inches apart once they are 2 inches tall.

Fertilizing: Anise is a light feeder; apply a balanced organic fertilizer at planting time, then sparingly during growth.

Weeding: Mulch around plants to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.

When to Harvest: Harvest seeds when flower heads turn brown and dry, typically 120 days after planting.

How to Harvest: Cut flower heads and place them in a paper bag. Allow them to dry completely before removing seeds.

Seed Collection: Gently rub dried flower heads to release seeds.

Storing Seeds: Store seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain flavor and viability for up to 2 years.