Chervil [Anthriscus cerefolium]

Chervil is a very old annual spice, tea and medicinal plant with origins in southeastern Europe and the Caucasus region. Wild chervil is found on forest edges, near streams and on fallow land. This particular herb has been used since ancient times for seasoning, fasting or detoxification. Chervil has a cleansing effect on the skin and has an anti-inflammatory effect. The taste of the chervil leaves is slightly sweet and spicy and is reminiscent of fennel and anise, with a delicate aroma. The plants grow very quickly and flower in very warm temperatures, which can be compensated for by sowing monthly. Not suitable for pregnant women and those with kidney disease.

General information
Plant family: Apiaceae
Life cycle: Annual
Days to harvest: 60 days
Plant height approx.: 60 cm
Root type: Shallow rooter
Nutrient requirements: Weak eater
Water requirements: Medium
Winter hardiness: Up to 3 °C
Location: Semi shady
Soil: Permeable, moist, loamy, sandy, humus

pH value: 6 to 7

Sowing and planting information
Germ type: Light and cold germinator
Sowing depth: 0 cm
Optimal germination temperature: 15-20 °C
Germination time: 6-14 days
Plant and row spacing: 15x20 cm

Optimal mixed culture: Lettuce, Radish, Horseradish, Lettuce, Onion
Unfavorable mixed culture: Cress, Nasturtium, Coriander, Parsley, Rocket

Subtropic climate (Mediterranean) (e. g. B. Portugal, Spain, Italy)
Sow directly outdoors from February to April or in autumn from October to November.

Moderate climate (e. g. B. Germany, Switzerland, Poland)
Sow directly outdoors from mid-April to August.

General
Sow directly in rows. The seeds require 4 to 6 days of cold exposure at 5 to 10 °C to germinate. Well suited for pot culture.
Chervil prefers a partially shaded location with a permeable, moist and humus-rich loamy soil. Prepare the soil with seasoned animal manure. Avoid waterlogging.

Additional tips
Young chervil plants develop flowers quickly if the plants are exposed to large temperature fluctuations or heat. For a continuous harvest, we recommend sowing monthly. In order to quickly obtain a fine, crumbly and permeable soil, we recommend additional incorporation of biochar and primary rock powder.

Type of propagation
It spreads via seeds.

Plant care
Remove flowers regularly to extend the harvest season. Regular watering causes faster growth. Beds prepared with animal manure and planting in mixed culture replace additional fertilizer.

Germination ability of seeds: 1-2 years

Other Names
Botanical names: Anthriscus cerefolium
English names: Chervil
German names: Echter Kerbel, Korfel, Korbel, Kufelkraut, Eselskörbel, Karweil, Keferfil, Kräutl, Körblikraut
Portuguese names: Cerefólio
Spanish names: Perifollo
French names: Cerfeuil