Fennel is a hardy perennial that can be grown in pots. The tasty leaves, seeds and stems can all be harvested, the leaves have a mild flavour, stems and seeds are stronger. Keep well watered to encourage strong growth. Sow thinly directly where they are to crop, 15mm deep into prepared soil that has already been watered, thin to 30cm apart. Water well until plants are established, keep moist and weed free. If desired, plants can be kept smaller by pinching back regularly. Pick leaves and stems as required and harvest ripe seeds once they have turned brown. Seedlings emerge 7-21 days. Sow spring to summer.