Chervil Vertissimo is an annual that grows to about 61 cm (24") tall.  It has light green leaves that resemble finely cut parsley.  White flowers are produced on flat heads.  The leaves have a hint of licorice flavor.  The delicate flavor disappears in cooking so add it just prior to serving.  Chervil likes to grow in a cool season.  Chervil serves as an excellent companion plant for carrots and radishes and is reported to make radishes hotter and crisper when grown near it . It also grows well with cilantro/coriander and dill, making them an ideal grouping for containers. It has also been reported to protect lettuces from aphids and other insects when companion planted. Leaves have a mild, sweet anise flavor.  It is popular for using in salads, micro greens, and garnishing. Chervil's flowers are also edible, and used to garnish salads as well. Flavor is of mild licorice.  Chervil is quite a hardy plant once established.

Growing Instructions:

Chervil is a cool-season herb that is typically grown from seed. Sow seeds in early spring or late summer, depending on your climate. Choose a location that receives partial shade in hot climates and full sun in cooler climates. Sow seeds 1cm (½”) deep, spaced 15-20cm (6-8”) apart in rows spaced 30-45cm (12-18”) apart. Keep soil moist and cool to promote germination, which typically takes 14-21 days. Thin seedlings to 10-15cm (4-6”) apart when they are 5-7cm (2-3”) tall. Chervil prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Chervil can bolt (go to seed) in hot weather, so harvest leaves when they are young and tender. Chervil can be harvested as baby leaves or mature leaves. Mature leaves can be harvested by cutting the entire plant or by picking individual leaves as needed. Chervil can also be grown as a cut-and-come-again crop, where you harvest only the outer leaves and allow the center of the plant to continue growing.

Soil Conditions: Well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Soil pH: 6.0-7.0. Planting Depth: Sow seeds 1cm (½”) deep. Germination: 14-21 days. Height at Maturity: 30-60cm (12-24”) tall. Days to Maturity: 60-90 days. Watering: Keep soil moist and cool. Chervil prefers consistent watering throughout the season. Sun/Shade: Partial shade in hot climates, full sun in cooler climates. Spacing after Thinning: Thin seedlings to 10-15cm (4-6”) apart.