Chives

Allium schoenoprasum L.

http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/

Description: Chives are a perennial herb. They are the smallest member of the edible onion genus. They
are grown for their scapes, which are used in cooking as a flavoring herb. They are also planted to repel
insects since they have a potent fragrance. Their bulbs are also important for pollination since they
attract bees.
USDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Soil preparation: Chives prefer well-drained soil. Add aged compost to the soil before planting.

Planting: In spring, plant seedlings in full sun. Keep mulch away from the bases of the plants to improve
air circulation and prevent disease problems. Chives compete poorly with other plants, so weed
diligently.

Spacing: Plant clumps of up to six chive bulbs 5 to 8 inches apart. Divide large clumps of chives about
every 3 years. Dig up the plants and divide them into small clumps with four to six bulbs each.

Fertilizing: Avoid heavy applications of nitrogen.

Harvesting Hints
Use scissors to cut chives about 2 inches above the soil. Before the plants flower, harvest from the
outside edges of the clumps. After flowering, cut back the entire plant to remove the spent flower
stalks.
Maintenance

It is important to give chives consistent watering throughout the growing season for high yields.
Moisten the soil thoroughly when watering.
Use mulch to conserve moisture and keep the weeds down.
Minimal care is needed for fully grown plants.
After the flowers bloom, be sure to remove them so that the seeds aren't spread throughout the
garden.
Plants grow to be 12 to 24 inches tall and may spread a foot across.
Remember to divide the plants every 3 to 4 years in the spring. Chives are much more productive if
divided regularly. Allow divided plants to grow for several weeks before harvesting.
Storage: Store chives in a cool place in a closed container.

Source: http://www.almanac.com/plant/chives