Dill and Parsley – No Scent

Question

Last week I bought parsley and dill from my local farmers’ market. I planted them on the balcony of my apartment. The problem is, neither of them have a smell when I break off and rub a leaf. Is there something wrong with them, or are they possibly too young still and need a little time to mature before they have a scent?

Answer 1

They have had too much nitrogen. Plants grown for grocery stores are forced to grow quickly with extra fertilizer. It makes them look nice but the smell and flavor is sacrificed. Give them a little time and the smell will return. Just don’t fertilize them so that their growth comes back into balance with their flavor compounds.