Preludio Fennel is an F1 hybrid bulb fennel that delivers impressively large, rounded white bulbs in just 50 days from seed. This European-inspired variety thrives in full sun with consistent moisture, producing the sweet, crisp bulbs that have filled Mediterranean kitchens for centuries. Plant it close at 1-inch spacing in rows 16 inches apart for a concentrated harvest of these prized culinary treasures.
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Moderate
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What sets Preludio apart is its remarkable speed to harvest, producing substantial rounded bulbs weeks ahead of many fennel varieties. This F1 hybrid combines the reliability of modern breeding with traditional European flavor profiles. The compact spacing requirements make it ideal for intensive growing, while its preference for cool-season maturation means you can time plantings for those perfect autumn harvests when fennel truly shines.
The large rounded bulbs are perfect for slicing thin into salads where their crisp texture and sweet anise flavor shine, braising until tender for warm dishes, or roasting to bring out their natural caramelized sweetness. The feathery fronds make excellent garnishes and can be harvested early as nutritious greens for soups or light steaming, offering a low-calorie, vitamin-rich addition to any meal.
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Start seeds indoors in 1-2 inch cell containers, sowing 2-3 seeds per cell at 1/4 inch deep. Thin to one strong plant per cell and grow for 4-6 weeks until plants can be removed without disturbing their sensitive root systems.
Transplant carefully in midspring through late summer, spacing plants 6 inches apart. Handle with extreme care as any root disturbance can trigger premature bolting. Remove any seed stalks that may form to keep energy focused on bulb development.
Harvest bulbs when they reach 3-4 inches wide and feel firm to the touch, typically around 50 days from seeding. Look for white or pale green bulbs that haven't yet become tough or started to bolt. Cut the bulb just above the soil line with a sharp knife, leaving roots intact if you want to encourage regrowth of the flavorful leaves.
Clip off any seed stalks that form to prevent bolting and keep the plant's energy directed toward bulb development rather than seed production.
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