Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are one of the easiest kitchen herbs to care for, and the aromatic and vitamin-rich herb simply tastes best fresh. For this reason, chives should not be missing on any balcony - no matter how small. We'll show you how to properly care for the perennial plant - it's guaranteed not to die again after just a few weeks.

location and substrate

Chives feel very comfortable in the pot, provided it is big enough. If you buy a small herb pot in the supermarket, plant it in a larger pot with fresh substrate as soon as possible. Chives need loose and nutrient-rich soil, so a commercially available universal soil or balcony plant soil is completely sufficient - these are usually already pre-fertilized. However, the plant should stand alone in a pot if possible - so a culture in the balcony box together with other plants is not very suitable. Chives need a partially shaded to sunny - but not full sun! - Location.

maintenance

Potted chives need to be watered and fertilized regularly. Keep the substrate evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. The earth must not dry out. However, excessive moisture not only leads to waterlogging, but also often results in a heavy infestation of fungus gnats. The latter can be avoided if you add about a centimeter of sand to the top of the pot. Chives can easily be watered with tap water. Fertilize the plant about every four weeks during the growing season with a liquid herb or vegetable fertilizer (£7.49) added to the irrigation water.

cutting and harvesting

In principle, you can harvest chives all year round as long as they are not in bloom. Blossoming can be prevented by regularly cutting back the stalks - chives sprout again very quickly. Cut the stalks about two to three centimeters above the ground. Only use healthy and green shoots. By the way, both the flowers and the buds of the chives are edible - try it!

Overwinter chives on the balcony

Chives are one of the hardy herbs and can therefore easily overwinter on the balcony. In late autumn, cut the stems down to about two centimeters and cover the pot with fir branches or some brushwood. The pot itself can be wrapped with warm fleece to protect against frost. On the other hand, if you still want to harvest in winter, bring the pot in and place it on the windowsill.

tips and tricks

Wilted or yellowing leaves are usually an indication that the plant is too dry. In some cases, however, waterlogging - and thus root rot - can also be the cause.

IJA

Category:

Vegetable garden