Maximizing Fennel Production: An Analysis of the Effects of Sowing Date on Growth, Yield, and Essential Oil Content

Abstract

Fennel is a herbaceous plant widely used for both medical and aromatic purposes, owing to its economic and pharmacological benefits. This study investigated the effects of different sowing dates on the growth, yield, and quality of fennel plants under arid and semi-arid conditions of Aswan governorate. Three different dates were explored; 15 th Oct, 1 st Nov and 15 th Nov for two successive seasons 2020/2021 and 2021/2022. The results showed that sowing date significantly influenced the vegetative and yield characters of fennel. Plants sowed on 15 th Oct had the best growth and yield characteristics, including the tallest plants, the highest fruit weight per plant, and the highest fruit yield per Fadden. The highest percentage and yield of essential oil were observed in plants sowed on 1 st Nov in the first season, and in plants sowed on 15 th Oct in the second season. The findings suggest that sowing fennel on 15 th Oct could lead to the highest yield and quality, which could be economically beneficial for farmers in arid and semi-arid regions.