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Chives

Chives Seeds

£1.39

Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are a hardy perennial herb with mild onion-flavoured leaves and attractive purple flowers that support pollinators.

Average Packet Contents: 600 Seeds

In stock

SKU: 0502AAA Categories: ,

Grow Chives – A Classic Herb with Delicate Flavour and Pollinator Appeal

Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are a timeless herb cherished for their slender, hollow leaves that impart a mild onion flavour to a variety of dishes. In late spring to early summer, they produce attractive, globe-shaped purple flowers that not only enhance garden aesthetics but also serve as a valuable nectar source for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

This hardy perennial is easy to grow and maintain, making it an excellent choice for gardeners of all experience levels. Whether planted in herb beds, borders, or containers, chives offer both culinary versatility and ecological benefits.

Growing Chives

Chives thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and are hardy throughout most regions of the UK.

Sowing and Planting

Sowing Period: Sow seeds indoors from February to April or directly outdoors from April to June.
Soil Preparation: Remove rocks and loosen the soil to create a fine, well-drained seedbed.
Sowing Depth: Sow seeds 0.5 cm deep into moist soil.
Spacing: Sow thinly and thin seedlings to 15 cm apart once established.
Germination: Expect seedlings to emerge within 7–14 days under warm conditions.

Care and Maintenance

Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.
Weeding: Regularly remove weeds to reduce competition.
Thinning/Dividing: Divide clumps every 3–4 years in spring to maintain vigour and prevent overcrowding.

Picking

Timing: Begin picking leaves once plants are well established, typically from early summer.
Method: Use scissors to snip leaves around 2.5 cm above the base. Regular cutting encourages fresh growth.
Storage: Fresh leaves can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week or chopped and frozen for longer storage.

Culinary Uses

Chives add a subtle onion flavour to a variety of dishes:

  • Salads: Sprinkle finely chopped leaves for a fresh, mild kick.
  • Soups: Stir in just before serving to preserve their delicate flavour.
  • Egg Dishes: Enhance omelettes, quiches, and scrambled eggs.
  • Garnishes: Use the edible flowers to decorate and flavour dishes.
Weight 5 g

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