Scientific Name: Allium schoenoprasum
Order: Asparagales
Family: Amaryllidaceae
Genus: Allium
Plant Type: Herb
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-10
Soil pH Level: 6.0 - 7.0
Soil Texture: Well-Drained
Sun Exposure: Full or Partial
Appearance Description: Chives are easy to grow and delicious to cook with. They plant itself has tall blades of green with round purple flower heads on top. They reach up to 2" in height.
How to Plant:
1. Work the soil until it has a smooth and broken-up consistency.
2. Amend native soil with compost, manure, or any other material.
3. Seeds should be started indoors 6 weeks before spring.
4. Lightly moisten the soil and sow seeds in groups of 5.
5. Each plant should be sowed 4-inches apart.
How to Maintain:
1. Follow a normal watering routine during the growing season.
2. Fertilize once or twice a month during the growing season with an all-purpose fertilizer.
3. Divide chives every 3-4 years.
How to Harvest:
1. Harvest after about 6 weeks or when the plant is fully mature.
2. Cut the leaves all the way down to the base.
Storage Tips:
Chives should be used fresh or should be frozen and preserved for later use. Avoid drying chives because they will lose flavor and purpose.
Top Varieties:
1. Garlic Chives
Fun Facts:
1. It used to be believed that chives would drive away disease and evil.
2. Chives are thought to promote good digestion, ease stomach pain, and prevent bad breath.
3. Chives are related to the lily family and are part of the onion family.
Related Soil:
Schultz Moisture Plus Potting Mix
Related Plant Food:
Schultz All Purpose Water Soluble
Schultz Flower & Vegetable Extended Feed
Schultz All Purpose Extended Feed
Schultz Granular Tomato & Vegetable Plant Food
Schultz Granular All Purpose Plant Food
