Chives

Hardy Perennial Herb

• Height : 12 inches

Description

Savoury garnish adding zest to any salad. Try chive butter or frozen chive cubes. Companion Plant: Grow chives close to carrots as it is said to improve their growth and deter carrot fly and next to roses to help control black spot. Also makes excellent organic insecticide.

Culinary note: Some parts of these flowers are edible. For more details about edible flowers click here.

Sowing Instructions

Prepare the ground well and rake to a fine tilth before sowing, Sow seeds early spring outdoors 12mm (½in) deep in rows 30cm (12in) apart. They can also be started off under glass and planted out later. Germination usually takes 6-21 days at 18-21C (65-70F).

Growing Instructions

When large enough to handle thin out to 15cm (6in) apart and transplant in late spring to their final positions 30cm (12in) apart.

Aftercare

They prefer ordinary well drained garden soil, sun or part shade.

Kitchen Notes

A subtle onion flavour excellent in salads, stews, scrambled egg or baked potatoes. Nature's Remedy: Recommended as an internal antiseptic or antibacterial agent and for easing coughs and colds. Fresh chives also help stimulate the appetite and promote digestion.