Chives are a perennial, hardy plant that can easily be propagated by division. Flowering chives look very appealing. However, you will get the most intense flavor if the plant does not flower.
Which location does chives prefer?
Chives love sunny to semi-shady locations, but often also thrive in a shady spot.
On which substrate do chives thrive best?
Chives need moist and as humus-rich as possible, but at the same time loose soil. Although the herb loves moisture, it does not tolerate waterlogging.
When is the best time to plant chives?
You can plant young chive plants in the garden bed as early as mid-March. Chives are very insensitive to cold and will most likely survive subsequent night frosts.
Can I also sow chives?
Of course, you can also grow your own chives from the black seeds. It is a dark germ, the seeds of which also germinate poorly in heat. Sow the seeds outdoors from around mid-March and cover them with a layer of soil about one to two centimeters thick. The seeds germinate best at temperatures between 1 and 10 °C. However, only the earth should be free of frost.
Should I prefer chives?
No. We do not recommend growing them on the windowsill or in the cold frame, as chives are cold germs.
At what distance should the individual plants be planted?
You can plant chives in bunches and with a distance of about 20 centimeters.
How can I transplant chives?
Actually, the chives - if they are planted out in the garden - do not need to be transplanted. Only chives in a pot should be placed in a larger pot with fresh soil every two to three years.
How can chives be propagated?
Chives are usually propagated by seeds or by division. The best time to divide is early spring, as the plant will then take root and grow in its new location faster. To divide, dig up the entire plant using a spade fork and cut through the rootstock with a sharp (and clean!) knife. You can then replant the two parts of chives separately. Such a division should only take place every three years, otherwise the plant will be weakened too much.
When can I harvest chives?
Chives can be harvested for the first time about six weeks after sowing, but only with care. In the first year, the young plant must not be severely pruned, as it should first become stronger. Basically you can harvest all year round, provided the plant has not yet flowered. Preferably cut from the outside in, as new shoots mainly grow inside. Leave about an inch or two of the culm above the ground.
Good and bad neighbors
Chives go well with dill and parsley, as well as oregano, tomatoes and strawberries.
tips and tricks
While flowering chives are not only pretty to look at, they also attract bees, butterflies and other nectar-seeking insects. However, the herb loses a lot of its aroma when it flowers. That's why you prevent the chives flowering by regularly pruning the plant.
IJA