Description
50 Seeds per pack
Dill – Mammoth Long Island – Mammoth Long Island Dill
Days to Maturity: 65–70 (leaves, flowers), 70+ (seeds)
Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Light Shade
Botanical Name: (Anethum graveolens)
Mammoth Long Island Dill is a vigorous heirloom appreciated for both its culinary value and traditional medicinal uses. Historically brewed into teas for colds, coughs, and digestion, it was also used to soothe colic and freshen breath. Its beneficial compounds are still valued today for aiding digestion and promoting relaxation.
Hardy and adaptable, this variety thrives in full sun and prefers cooler temperatures to extend leaf production and delay bolting. Best grown in garden beds or large containers with deep soil, it reaches an impressive 3 to 6 feet in height. Its fine, feathery foliage is dark green, and its broad, umbrella-like flower heads span 6–8 inches and attract beneficial pollinators.
The leaves impart a bright, herbal flavor to salads, steamed vegetables, and sauces. Flowers can be used fresh in vinegar infusions or as a garnish, while the seeds are essential for pickling and add warm flavor to breads and spice blends.
All parts—leaves, flowers, and seeds—dry well for extended use. Rich in vitamins A and C, it also provides folate, calcium, potassium, and magnesium, making it a nourishing and versatile garden staple.
Planting Instructions for Dill – Mammoth Long Island Seeds
Dill is an annual plant that loves full sun, and loose, moderate to rich soil. For fresh dill throughout the season, make small sowings every few weeks. Do not plant near carrots or tomatoes, as they are known to compete poorly with dill. Plant the first crop outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
To sow, plant seeds ¼” deep, spacing them 4–6” apart in rows 18 inches apart. Alternatively, you can broadcast seeds over a square bed and gently rake them into the soil. Water seeds thoroughly after planting. Germination usually takes 10–14 days in soil temperatures between 60–70°F.
Once seedlings have emerged and are established, thin them to stand 6–12” apart. Water regularly, but avoid overwatering. For an extended harvest, do not allow the plants to flower. Also, since dill has a tendency to blow over in strong wind, consider sheltering the plants or staking taller ones.
You can begin harvesting as soon as the plant has four or five leaves. Pinch off the leaves or cut them with scissors, or harvest entire stalks if needed. To collect seeds, wait until the first seeds begin turning brown, then cut the whole seed head and hang it upside down so the seeds can dry and fall out into trays or paper bags.
If dill is allowed to go to seed naturally and the soil is left undisturbed, it often self-sows. You may find new dill plants appearing on their own the following spring.
FAQ:
What is the historical or notable background of Mammoth Long Island Dill?
Mammoth Long Island Dill is a beloved heirloom known for its culinary and medicinal significance. Traditionally used in teas for easing colds, digestion, and colic, it also gained popularity for freshening breath and promoting relaxation through its aromatic compounds.
How would you describe the flavor of Mammoth Long Island Dill?
Mammoth Long Island Dill has a strong, classic dill flavor. The leaves are fresh and aromatic, great for seasoning vegetables, sauces, and salads. The seeds are more intense and slightly spicy, making them ideal for pickling and spice mixes.
What does Mammoth Long Island Dill look like, and what are its growing habits?
A towering dill variety, Mammoth Long Island grows 3 to 6 feet tall, producing dark green, fern-like foliage and broad, 6–8 inch umbrella-shaped flower heads. It prefers cool weather to prolong leaf growth.
When and how do I harvest Mammoth Long Island Dill?
Begin harvesting when the plant has at least four or five mature leaves—usually around 65–70 days. Regular harvesting of leaves will delay flowering. For seed collection, wait until the heads begin to brown, then cut and dry them upside down in paper bags to capture the falling seeds.
When is the best time to plant Mammoth Long Island Dill?
Sow seeds outdoors after the last frost has passed. For a continuous supply, make successive sowings every few weeks. Dill thrives in full sun with well-drained, loose soil and cooler temperatures that help delay flowering. Avoid planting it near carrots or tomatoes due to competition issues.
What are the common culinary uses for Mammoth Long Island Dill?
The feathery leaves are ideal for seasoning steamed vegetables, salads, and creamy sauces. The flower heads can be used fresh in vinegar infusions, while the seeds are great for pickling and also enrich spice mixes, rye breads, and savory dishes with their warm, pungent flavor.
What’s the best way to store Mammoth Long Island Dill after harvest?
To store fresh leaves, refrigerate them in a damp paper towel or freeze them chopped in water-filled ice cube trays. For longer-term storage, dry the leaves in a cool, dark area or use a dehydrator. Once dried, store in an airtight container. Seeds should be fully dried and stored in jars away from heat and light.
What nutrients does Mammoth Long Island Dill provide?
This dill is rich in vitamins A and C, along with folate, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients contribute to immune support, bone health, and muscle function, making it a nourishing addition to the kitchen.
Is Mammoth Long Island Dill suitable for essential oil or aromatherapy use?
Yes, the entire plant—especially its seeds—contains aromatic compounds valued in essential oil production. Traditionally, these oils have been used to calm digestive discomfort, freshen breath, and ease tension, making it useful not only in cooking but also in traditional remedies.
Connie Taylor (verified owner) –
Each seed is absolutely beautiful and healthy! The seed envelope is fantastic along with a ziploc bag with seeds enclosed, a super nice label! Thank You Everyone at St. Clare Seeds! I am honored and blessed to have had the opportunity to purchase seeds from you! Many Blessings!
Anonymous (verified owner) –
Not sure, they started growing and then just dried up. had to replant again, waiting for results.
Hazel Hardisty (verified owner) –
Excellent!