Chervil

Anthriscus cerefolium

This small, delicate herb has a mild taste of aniseed. It likes cool weather and light shade. In hot sun it flowers too soon, so it does best in spring and autumn. Sow a little every few weeks for a steady supply.

Looking after it

Water: Chervil needs normal watering. Keep the soil evenly damp but not soggy, as dry soil makes it flower early. Pots need extra water in warm weather. Feeding: It needs very little food. Garden soil or fresh compost is enough, so don't feed it.

Picking and keeping

The leaves are ready about eight weeks after sowing, once the plants are 10 cm tall. Pick a few young leaves from each plant. Or cut whole stems back to 5 cm and let them grow again. Use chervil fresh. It wilts within a day or two and it loses most of its flavour when dried.

What can go wrong

Bolting. In hot sun and dry soil the plants flower early and the leaves lose their taste. Grow it in light shade, water regularly and sow again every few weeks.
Aphids. Small green insects cluster on the soft leaves and shoots. Rub or wash them off and let ladybirds eat the rest.

Growing facts: RHS, UC ANR and seed-company sowing guides. Chervil care: RHS. pH: University of Connecticut extension.