I have found a caterpillar approximately 1 1/2 inches long with black/yellow stripes dining on my dill weed plant. I live in the Northeast. What is it, and how do I get rid of it?
It may be an Eastern Black Swallowtail: http://www.fcps.edu/islandcreekes/ecology/eastern_black_swallowtail.htm
Regardless, this article will help you with caterpillars in your garden:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/prevent-caterpillars.htm
My dill plants did not do well this year, as they remained very small. This is the first year I tried to grow dill from small plants. My garden is small but has a lot of sun. The soil is somewhat compacted but I fertilize in the spring with manure and humus.
There are several things that could have happened. Since the soil is a bit compacted, it may be that the roots, which were use to growing in a looser medium, may have had a hard time in the more compacted medium. It cold also be that they were not able to get enough water.
After dill blooms, can I cut the top off so that it grows more leaves?
This article should help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/dill/tips-on-how-to-grow-dill-weed-plants.htm
Pinching herbs generally helps with creating fuller plants. Here is more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/hgen/making-herbs-bigger-through-pinching-and-harvesting.htm
I got some fresh dill weed and there are black spots on the fern type leaves. When I rub my fingers over them, the dill breaks off in those sections, so it's obvious whatever is on them is breaking it down. Do you know if it's still safe to eat the dill weed with this issue?
It is best to cut the diseased parts off and wash what is left well. If you do that, it will be edible.
I cut some strong branches off my dill before the hard frost. I have it in water right now. Should I put it in rooting hormone and plant it?
To my knowledge, seeds are the usual form of propagation for this plant; however, I suppose it never hurts to try.
What can I plant with dill?
Dill is a great companion for cabbage family plants, such as broccoli and brussels sprouts. Dill also complements lettuce, onions, and cucumbers.
Is dill weed edible to deer and rabbits?
Yes, it is very edible to those pests. Most plants that we find tasty, rabbits and deer will too.
These articles may help with deterring them though:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/deer/deer-repellents.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/how-to-keep-rabbits-out-of-gardens.htm