Chives
A hardy perennial from the Allium family, Chives are the earliest herb to appear in the spring. The seed germinates in two to three weeks in moist soil with warm, dark conditions indoors but is just as happy being direct-sown into the garden once the threat of frost has passed. Prolific and easy to grow, Chives are also perfect in terrace pots. We like to use them fresh all summer long, taking care to discard any of the flowering stems that become woody after the flower dies. Bee friendly. Deer resistant. Perennial. Hardiness zones: 3-9. Height: 12" to 18". Average seed life: 1 year.
Gardening Tips
Chives Sowing InstructionsPlanting Depth:1/4”-1/2”
Row Spacing:12”-18”
Seed Spacing:3”-6”
Plant Spacing: 12”
Herbs may be either direct-sown outdoors after the threat of frost has passed, or started indoors for transplanting or container gardening. Herbs require moderately rich, well-draining soil with at least 5 hours of bright sunlight. To start indoors: sow lightly in sterilized seed mix, lightly moisten and cover with plastic wrap until germination takes place. Do not water again until sprouts emerge. Remove plastic wrap once sprouted. Transplant outdoors when the threat of frost has passed. Some perennials like Lavender, Catnip or Savory prefer to be started indoors. Others such as Chives, Sage or Fennel prefer to be direct-sown outside once the soil has warmed. Most herbs dislike chemicals or over-fertilization. Feed lightly with kelp or fish emulsion once seedlings are well established. Keep lightly moist: never wet. Pinch back the plants to avoid flowering and to encourage leaf production.
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Featured Recipes
- Asparagus-Celeriac Benedict
- Cilantro Ranch Dressing
- Compound Butter
- Cream of Potato-Leek Soup with Parsley Croutons and Chives
- Cucumber and Chive Soup with Lemon and Dill
- Dutch Cream of Mustard Soup
- Herbed Butter Balls
- Jan’s Cream of Cauliflower Soup
- Niman Ranch Skirt Steak with Watermelon, Red Onion and Mint Relish
- Saucy Cauliflower Spread