When it comes to harvesting fennel, timing is crucial. The ideal point to harvest fennel is around 80 days after sowing the seeds. At this stage, the bulbs are usually about the size of a cricket ball. However, it is important to note that you can choose to harvest fennel earlier or later than this depending on your preferences.
Harvesting fennel too early may result in smaller bulbs, while waiting too long can lead to tougher and less flavorful bulbs. Therefore, it is best to aim for a balance between size and tenderness when deciding when to harvest your fennel.
If you harvest fennel when the bulbs are around the size of a cricket ball, you can expect them to be at their prime. The bulbs should be firm and solid, with a crisp texture. They should also have a mild, sweet flavor that is characteristic of fresh fennel.
Keep in mind that fennel bulbs will continue to grow larger as they mature, but they may also become tougher and more fibrous. So, if you prefer a tender and more delicate taste, it’s generally recommended to harvest fennel when the bulbs are still relatively small.
In my personal experience, I have found that harvesting fennel at around 80 days yields the best results in terms of size, tenderness, and flavor. I have tried harvesting fennel at different stages, and I have noticed that when I wait too long, the bulbs become quite tough and lose some of their desirable qualities.
To summarize, the size at which you should harvest fennel is around the size of a cricket ball, which is typically reached at around 80 days after sowing. However, you can adjust the harvest time based on your preferences for size, tenderness, and flavor. Just remember that as fennel bulbs grow larger, they also become tougher.
