Mars Early Fennel Seeds

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Seeds of an early hybrid variety producing compact, well-formed white bulbs in a short growing cycle.

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Mars early fennel

The Mars early fennel is an early-cycle hybrid variety, selected to produce compact, well-formed bulbs faster than medium-late varieties. It's particularly suited for those seeking early harvests while still maintaining excellent product quality.

The Mars early fennel plant

This is a herbaceous plant (Foeniculum vulgare var. azoricum) of the Apiaceae family, with fleshy leaf sheaths overlapping to form the bulb at the base and an upright, hollow stem with thin, finely divided, deep green leaves. Mars is characterized by a short growing cycle, allowing earlier harvest compared to many other cultivated varieties.

The mature bulb is round and compact, white in color, with crisp, juicy sheaths that make it versatile both raw and cooked.

How to sow Mars early fennel

Sowing takes place from late June to early July, in a seedbed or directly in open field, once minimum temperatures stably exceed 14°C. Seeds should be buried about 1-1.5 cm deep. Thanks to the variety's earliness, germination and initial growth are generally fast, with transplanting possible after about 30 days if sown in a seedbed.

How to grow Mars early fennel

Mars fennel prefers a temperate, sunny climate, with an optimal temperature around 20°C. The ideal soil is fertile, rich in organic matter, well-draining, loose or medium-textured: in overly compact soils the bulb can protrude and take on an unattractive greenish color.

Spacing of about 20-30 cm along the row and 25 cm between rows should be maintained. Watering must be regular but not excessive, especially in the early growth stages, to promote a compact bulb without harmful waterlogging.

Tips for growing Mars early fennel

Given the fast cycle, it's important to monitor bulb development frequently to harvest at the right time, before they tend to become fibrous. Periodically earthing up the base promotes blanching and protects the bulb from direct sun exposure.

Diseases and pests of Mars early fennel

Common leaf diseases include septoria and cercospora, responsible for necrotic spots, and powdery mildew, recognizable by the white powdery coating on the leaves. Good airflow between plants, achieved through correct spacing, significantly reduces the risk of these fungal issues.

Properties of Mars early fennel

The bulb of Mars fennel is rich in water and fiber, with a low calorie content that makes it suitable for a light, balanced diet. It contains potassium, useful for fluid and mineral balance, and the typical aromatic compounds of fennel, valued for their digestive and carminative properties.

Nutritional values of Mars early fennel (per 100 g)

  • Calories: 31 kcal
  • Protein: 1.2 g
  • Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7.3 g
  • Fiber: 3.1 g
  • Vitamin C: 12 mg
  • Potassium: 414 mg