About Chervil
Chervil Introduction
Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium) is a delicate annual herb native to the Caucasus region but naturalized in Europe and North America. The plant is a member of the Apiaceae family, which includes other aromatic herbs like parsley and cilantro. Chervil is known for its subtle, anise-like flavor and delicate, fern-like leaves.
The herb typically grows to a height of 12 to 24 inches (30-60 cm) and has a spread of about 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm). Its leaves are compound and finely divided, giving them a lacy appearance. The foliage is a bright, fresh green color, which adds visual appeal to gardens and culinary presentations alike.
Chervil produces small, white flowers in umbels during late spring or early summer. These flowers are not only attractive to pollinators but also signal the end of the plant’s prime harvesting period. After flowering, the plant produces small, elongated fruits that contain seeds. Chervil is known for its quick growth and tendency to self-seed, making it a popular choice for continuous harvests in herb gardens.
Chervil Care & Growing Guide
Caring for chervil requires attention to its specific needs, as it can be somewhat particular about its growing conditions. This herb prefers cool temperatures and partial shade, making it an excellent choice for spring and fall gardens in many regions.
To successfully grow chervil, start by selecting a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. The soil should be rich, moist, and well-draining. Prepare the planting area by incorporating organic matter such as compost to improve soil structure and fertility. Sow seeds directly in the garden, as chervil doesn’t transplant well due to its delicate taproot.
Watering is crucial for chervil, as it prefers consistently moist soil but can’t tolerate waterlogging. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilization is generally not necessary if the soil is rich, but a light application of well-balanced, organic fertilizer can be beneficial if growth seems slow.
Soil
Chervil thrives in rich, moist, well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.7, slightly acidic to neutral. The ideal soil composition is rich, yet well draining, with a good balance of pumice or perlite, peat moss, and compost. This composition ensures proper drainage while retaining enough moisture and nutrients for the plant’s needs.
To improve soil for chervil, incorporate compost or worm castings before planting. This not only adds nutrients but also improves soil structure and water retention. Chervil is sensitive to poor drainage, which can lead to root rot, so ensure that water drains well through the soil mixture.
Soil problems that can affect chervil include:
1. Poor drainage: Can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.
2. Compaction: Restricts root growth and water penetration.
3. Inappropriate pH: Can affect nutrient availability.
4. Salt build-up: Can occur from over-fertilization, affecting water uptake.
5. Nutrient deficiencies: Most common in poor or depleted soils.
6. Pot boundness: Can occur if grown in containers that are too small.
Regular soil testing and appropriate amendments can help maintain optimal soil conditions for chervil, promoting healthy growth and abundant harvests.
Fertilizer
Chervil has relatively low fertilizer needs compared to many other herbs. Over-fertilization can lead to reduced flavor intensity and excessive leafy growth at the expense of overall plant health.
Fertilization recommendations:
1. Soil preparation: Before planting, incorporate well-aged compost or worm castings into the soil.
2. During growth: If planted in rich soil, additional fertilization is often unnecessary. However, if growth seems slow, apply a diluted, well-balanced organic fertilizer (such as a 5-5-5 NPK) every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
3. Organic alternatives: Compost tea or seaweed extract are good additional natural fertilizers.
Signs of over-fertilization in chervil:
– Excessive, floppy growth
– Reduced flavor intensity
– Leaf burn or yellowing
– Delayed or reduced flowering
Signs of under-fertilization:
– Slow growth
– Pale or yellowing leaves
– Small, underdeveloped leaves
Specific nutrient requirements:
– Chervil benefits from balanced nutrition but is particularly sensitive to nitrogen levels.
– A slight magnesium deficiency can sometimes occur, indicated by yellowing between leaf veins. This can be addressed with a foliar spray of Epsom salts solution.
Remember, it’s always better to under-fertilize than over-fertilize chervil. Regular soil testing can help determine if any specific nutrient deficiencies need to be addressed.
Watering
Chervil requires consistent moisture but is sensitive to overwatering. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Water quality preferences:
– Chervil prefers slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0-7.0)
– Rainwater or filtered water is ideal
– If using tap water, allow it to sit for 24 hours to dissipate chlorine
Signs of underwatering:
– Wilting or drooping leaves
– Dry, crispy leaf edges
– Stunted growth
Signs of overwatering:
– Yellowing leaves
– Soft, mushy stems near the soil line
– Fungal growth on soil surface
Watering needs change seasonally:
– Increase frequency during hot, dry periods
– Reduce in cooler months or during rainy seasons
– Water more frequently when plants are young or newly transplanted
Lighting
Chervil prefers partial shade to full shade conditions. It thrives in areas that receive morning sun and afternoon shade, or dappled light throughout the day. This herb is sensitive to intense, direct light, especially in warmer climates.
Signs of insufficient light include:
– Elongated, spindly growth
– Pale or yellowing leaves
– Reduced flavor intensity
Signs of excessive light exposure include:
– Wilting or drooping leaves
– Scorched or brown leaf edges
– Stunted growth
Place chervil near a north- or east-facing window, or use full-spectrum grow lights set on a timer to provide 6-8 hours of light daily.
Temperature
Chervil thrives in cool temperatures, with an ideal range of 60Β°F to 70Β°F (15Β°C to 21Β°C). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 40Β°F (4Β°C) and as high as 80Β°F (27Β°C), but growth and flavor may be affected at these extremes.
Temperature tolerance and tips:
1. Cold tolerance: Chervil can withstand light frosts but should be protected when temperatures drop below 40Β°F (4Β°C).
2. Heat sensitivity: Temperatures above 80Β°F (27Β°C) can cause bolting (premature flowering) and bitter-tasting leaves.
3. Temperature fluctuations: Chervil can handle moderate temperature changes but sudden, extreme shifts may stress the plant.
Protecting chervil from extreme temperatures:
– In cold weather: Keep the plant away from drafty windows and doors and from heating vents.
– In hot weather: Keep out of direct light and away from hot windows. Mulch soil to keep roots cool.
Note that chervil’s preference for cool temperatures makes it an excellent choice for spring and fall gardens in many regions. In warmer climates, it’s often grown as a winter annual.
Humidity
Chervil prefers moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 50-70%. While it can tolerate average household humidity, maintaining higher levels can promote healthier growth and prevent issues related to dry air.
Symptoms of low humidity stress in chervil:
– Crispy or brown leaf edges
– Wilting despite adequate soil moisture
– Slow growth or reduced leaf production
Symptoms of excessively high humidity:
– Fungal growth on leaves or soil surface
– Soft, mushy growth
– Increased susceptibility to root rot
To increase humidity:
1. Pebble trays: Place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water, ensuring the pot doesn’t sit directly in water.
2. Misting: Lightly mist the leaves daily, preferably in the morning to allow water to evaporate during the day.
3. Humidifiers: Use a room humidifier near the plant, especially effective in dry indoor environments.
4. Grouping plants: Place chervil near other plants to create a microclimate with higher humidity.
To decrease humidity if it becomes problematic:
1. Improve air circulation with fans
2. Reduce misting or other humidity-increasing practices
3. Use a dehumidifier if indoor humidity is consistently too high
Pebble trays and grouping plants are often the most effective and low-maintenance methods for chervil, providing a consistent increase in local humidity without risking overwatering or leaf diseases associated with frequent misting.
Propagation
Chervil is primarily propagated by seeds, as it doesn’t transplant well due to its delicate taproot. Here’s a step-by-step guide to propagating chervil:
1. Timing: Sow seeds in early spring or late summer/early fall for a continuous harvest.
2. Soil preparation: Prepare a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter.
3. Sowing: Scatter seeds thinly on the soil surface or in shallow furrows about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Spacing: If sowing in rows, space them about 6-8 inches apart.
5. Watering: Water gently but thoroughly, keeping the soil consistently moist.
6. Germination: Seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days at temperatures between 60Β°F-70Β°F (15Β°C-21Β°C).
7. Thinning: Once seedlings are about 2 inches tall, thin them to 6-8 inches apart.
8. Care: Keep soil moist and provide partial shade, especially in warmer climates.
Propagation success rates:
– Direct sowing: High success rate, preferred method.
– Indoor starting and transplanting: Lower success rate due to taproot sensitivity.
Best time to propagate:
– Spring: 2-3 weeks before the last expected frost for summer harvest.
– Late summer/early fall: 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost for fall/winter harvest.
Establishment time:
– Seedlings emerge in 1-2 weeks.
– Plants reach harvestable size in about 6-8 weeks from sowing.
– Full maturity is reached in approximately 10-12 weeks.
Note: Chervil readily self-seeds, so allowing some plants to flower can lead to volunteer plants in subsequent seasons.
Potting
Potting and repotting requirements for chervil:
Pot type:
– Use containers with good drainage holes.
– Terracotta or clay pots are ideal, as they allow for better soil aeration.
– Minimum pot size: 6-8 inches deep and wide per plant.
Drainage:
– Essential to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
– Add a layer of gravel or broken pottery shards at the bottom of the pot for improved drainage.
Soil composition:
– Use a well-draining, fertile potting mix.
– Blend regular potting soil with compost, peat moss, and perlite or pumice for improved drainage and fertility.
Repotting frequency:
– As an annual herb, chervil rarely needs repotting.
– If growing as a perennial in ideal conditions, repot every spring or when the plant outgrows its container.
Signs that chervil needs repotting:
– Roots growing out of drainage holes.
– Water runs straight through the pot without being absorbed.
– Plant wilts quickly after watering.
– Stunted growth despite proper care.
Repotting process:
1. Water the plant thoroughly a day before repotting.
2. Gently remove the plant from its current pot.
3. Inspect roots and trim any that are dead, damaged, or excessively long.
4. Place fresh potting mix in the new container.
5. Position the plant at the same depth it was growing previously.
6. Fill around the roots with potting mix, gently firming it down.
7. Water thoroughly and place in a shaded area for a few days to recover.
Note: Chervil has a delicate root system, so handle with care during repotting to minimize stress. It’s often easier to start new plants from seed rather than repotting established plants.
Pruning
Pruning Chervil: A Comprehensive Guide
Best Time for Pruning
Prune chervil regularly throughout its growing season, typically every 2-3 weeks.
Frequency
Frequent light pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents flowering, which can make the leaves bitter.
Purpose
Pruning promotes fresh growth, maintains plant shape, and provides a continuous harvest of flavorful leaves.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or herb snips are ideal for pruning chervil.
Step-by-Step Pruning Guide
- Sanitize your pruning tools with rubbing alcohol or a diluted bleach solution (9 parts water to 1 part bleach).
- Identify stems that are at least 4-6 inches long.
- Cut these stems about 2 inches above the soil line or just above a leaf node.
- Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves as you prune.
- Trim off flower buds as soon as they appear to prolong leaf production.
- Avoid removing more than 1/3 of the plant at any one time.
Preparation
Water the plant well a day before pruning to ensure it’s not under stress.
Aftercare
After pruning, water the plant lightly and ensure it receives adequate light to encourage new growth.
Special Considerations
If you want to collect seeds, allow a few plants to flower and go to seed at the end of the season. Otherwise, regular pruning will help prevent self-seeding and maintain the plant’s compact form.
Blooming
Chervil typically blooms in late spring to early summer, usually about 6-8 weeks after planting. The blooming period lasts for several weeks. Flowers are small, white, and appear in delicate umbels. Optimal conditions for blooming include cool temperatures (60Β°F-70Β°F or 15Β°C-21Β°C) and partial shade. Flowering is often seen as the end of the prime harvesting period for leaves, as the flavor can become bitter after blooming.
Pests and Diseases
Pests
Common issues
Aphids
Slugs and snails
Whiteflies
Symptoms
Aphids: Curled or distorted leaves, sticky residue on leaves (uncommon indoors)
Slugs and snails: Holes in leaves, silvery slime trails (uncommon indoors)
Whiteflies: Yellowing leaves, sticky residue, tiny white flies when plant is disturbed
Treatment
Aphids: Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil, introduce ladybugs as natural predators
Slugs and snails: Use copper tape around pots or organic slug pellets
Whiteflies: Use yellow sticky traps, spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil
Diseases
Common issues
Root rot
Leaf spot
Symptoms
Root rot: Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing leaves, soft, brown roots
Leaf spot: Brown or black spots on leaves, often with yellow halos
Treatment
Root rot: Improve drainage, reduce watering, remove affected parts, and repot in fresh, sterile soil if necessary
Leaf spot: Remove affected leaves, avoid wetting leaves when watering
Special Features
Chervil is prized for its delicate, anise-like flavor that’s often described as a blend of parsley and tarragon. The herb is a key ingredient in French cuisine, particularly in the herb mixture fines herbes. The lacy, fern-like foliage adds visual interest to gardens and container plantings. Chervil also has some medicinal properties, traditionally used for its mild diuretic effects and to aid digestion. Its quick growth makes it an excellent choice for succession planting, providing a continuous harvest throughout the growing season.
Plant Benefits
Chervil has several herbal and pharmaceutical benefits. The herb is rich in antioxidants and contains vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium. Traditionally, it has been used to aid digestion, reduce blood pressure, and as a mild diuretic. Some studies suggest it may have anti-inflammatory properties. In herbal medicine, chervil has been used to treat hiccups, reduce water retention, and as a gentle spring tonic. However, it’s important to note that while these traditional uses exist, more scientific research is needed to fully validate many of these claims.
Additional Information
Chervil is often called the gourmet’s parsley due to its subtle flavor and its prominence in French cuisine. It is one of the main ingredients in the classic French herb blend ‘fines herbes’, along with parsley, tarragon, and chives. The herb loses its flavor quickly when dried or cooked for long periods, so it’s best used fresh and added at the end of cooking. Chervil is also known for its companion planting benefits, as it can help repel some garden pests when planted near other vegetables or herbs.
Life Cycle
Chervil is typically grown as an annual herb, completing its life cycle within one growing season. However, in some mild climates, it can behave as a biennial. The life cycle begins with seed germination in cool, moist soil. Seedlings emerge within 7-14 days and grow rapidly, producing lacy, compound leaves. The plant reaches maturity in about 6-8 weeks, at which point leaves can be harvested. If left to grow, chervil will produce small white flowers in umbels after about 6-8 weeks of growth. Following flowering, the plant produces small, elongated fruits containing seeds. After seed production, the plant typically dies. Chervil prefers cool temperatures and partial shade throughout its life cycle, bolting (flowering prematurely) when exposed to high temperatures or long daylight hours. For continuous harvest, succession planting every few weeks is recommended.
Are Chervil Poisonous, Toxic
Chervil is generally considered non-toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. However, as with any plant, consumption in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some individuals. There are no specific toxic parts or severe symptoms associated with chervil ingestion. As a precautionary measure, it’s always best to keep any plants out of reach of pets and children who might indiscriminately consume large amounts. If ingestion of large quantities occurs, monitor for any unusual symptoms and consult a healthcare professional or veterinarian if concerns arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you grow chervil?
Chervil is best grown from seeds sown directly in containers. It prefers cool temperatures and partial shade. Sow seeds in early spring or late summer in well-draining, fertile soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and thin seedlings to 6-8 inches apart when they’re about 2 inches tall.
What does chervil taste like?
Chervil has a delicate, subtle flavor often described as a blend of parsley and tarragon with a hint of anise or licorice. The herb is milder than parsley and adds a fresh, slightly sweet taste to dishes.
How do you use chervil in cooking?
Chervil is best used fresh and added at the end of cooking to preserve its delicate flavor. It is commonly used in French cuisine, particularly in egg dishes, light soups, and salads. The herb is also a key ingredient in the herb blend ‘fines herbes’.
Can chervil be grown indoors?
Yes, chervil can be grown indoors in containers. It needs a cool location with bright, indirect light. Use a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Is chervil annual or perennial?
Chervil is typically grown as an annual herb, completing its life cycle in one growing season. In some mild climates and indoors, it can behave as a biennial, but it’s generally treated as an annual in most gardens.
How often should I water chervil?
Chervil prefers consistently moist soil. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch and the moisture meter reads 4. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely or become waterlogged. Watering frequency will depend on climate and growing conditions.
Can chervil be frozen?
Yes, chervil can be frozen to preserve it for later use. Wash and dry the leaves, then chop them finely. You can freeze chervil in ice cube trays with a bit of water or oil, or in small freezer bags. However, frozen chervil is best used in cooked dishes, as it loses some of its texture when thawed.
What are the health benefits of chervil?
Chervil is rich in antioxidants and contains vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium. It has been traditionally used to aid digestion, reduce blood pressure, and as a mild diuretic. Some studies suggest it may have anti-inflammatory properties.
How tall does chervil grow?
Chervil typically grows to a height of 12 to 24 inches (30-60 cm) and has a spread of about 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm). The plant’s size can vary depending on growing conditions and whether it is allowed to flower.
Is chervil the same as cilantro?
No, chervil and cilantro are different herbs. While both are in the Apiaceae family, they have distinct flavors and appearances. Chervil has a milder, anise-like flavor and delicate, fern-like leaves, while cilantro has a stronger, citrusy flavor and broader leaves.
Can I grow Chervil in my indoor space
Difficulty
Intermediate
Size
Small
Light
Medium
Water
Medium
Flowering
Yes
Pet Safe
Yes
Air Purifier
Low
Anthriscus cerefolium botanical details
Common Name
Chervil
Other Common Names
French parsley, Garden chervil
Botanical Name
Anthriscus cerefolium
Native Area
Caucasus region
Family Name
Apiaceae
Plant Type
Annual herb
Genus
Anthriscus
Kingdom
Plantae
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Plant Puns and Jokes
Why did the chervil refuse to go on a date? Because it was too parsley to commit!