How to Grow Chives
Perennial, Allium Shoenoprasum
Without a doubt, Chives are the absolute easiest herb to grow. 'Matter of
fact, it might just be the easiest plant to grow, period. Indoors or outdoors,
chives are a favorite of gardeners. And as a perennial, once you plant it,
you've got Chives forever!
Chives are native to Siberia and Southeast Asia. Folks over there just could
not keep this wonderful herb a secret. As a result, chive plants are commonly
grown by the majority of home gardeners. A member of the onion family, Chive
plants have narrow, tubular leaves that are delicious snipped fresh into
any dish where onions are used. If you let them grow too long, they will
produce pretty lavender blooms, and be right at home in a flower garden.
Hardy plants need little care outdoors, and just a little love indoors.
There are two types of chives. The first and most popular has a mild, onion-like
flavor. The Garlic Chive has a slightly stronger garlic flavor.
Growing just 6-10 inches, chives are perfect in window boxes or containers
on patios or decks. It's cousin, Garlic Chives, grows a little bigger and
has a white flower.
Chives make great edible houseplant. Grow them all winter in a sunny window,
and harvest them as needed.
Propagation:
Chives are grown from seed. They are best started indoors at least six weeks
before you want to set them out. Start them in the winter, and you will enjoy
your first cutting before you set them out.
You can also sow seeds directly into your garden.
Once your chives are well established, they can be separated by division.
How to Grow Chives:
Chives prefer full sun, but tolerate a fair amount of shade. Almost any soil
will do. It is best if the soil is well drained soil. They will do well in
average soils and tolerate dry soil conditions. Water them during dry periods,
if they start to wilt. In most cases you will not need to add fertilizer,
but it won't hurt if you add some once or twice a year.
For indoor plants, using a liquid fertilizer once every four to six weeks
will improve growth.
Harvest Chives whenever you need them. We do recommend that you cut them
back if they get to six inches. This will promote tender, new growth.
Tip: Grow Chives in a flower bed next to the back door. These hardy
perennials can still be harvested long after frost and early in the spring.
Main Cooking Uses:
Chives shine in the kitchen. Use them in salads, soups (chives in tomato
or potato soups are great!), in tuna fish, baked potatoes with sour cream,
cream cheese(on bagels), mexican dishes, and any place where you would use
onions.
Medicinal Applications:
Chives are high in vitamin C.
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