Allium schoenoprasum
History |
| Chives are a perennial plant that enjoys sun and free draining soils. Both the leaves and flowers can be eaten.Plants make very tidy borders in a herb garden, and the flowers attract bees. Chives and other members of the Allium family can be a deterrent to pests such as aphids, and carrot fly. |
Growing |
| Seed of chives is best sown fresh, and plants can be divided in the Autumn. Regular dividing of plants will keep them rejuvenated. When harvesting leaves it is best to cut above 5cm to leave enough of the growing tips on your plants. Plants will rot in heavy water logged soils. Good drainage is essential. |
Maintenance |
| Feeding: A little organic feeding such as compost Occasionally will keep plants fresh and healthy. |
Uses |
| Harvest by snipping with scissors. Chives will lose their flavour if cooked and are best eaten raw chopped and added to salads or used as a garnish. the flowers add lovely colour to a salad. Also great added to egg dishes at the end of cooking.
Chive can also be grown and used as a sprout. |