Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) make a wonderful addition to the herb garden. In gardens throughout France, the herb is almost obligatory since it is one of the ‘fines herbes' traditionally combined with chervil, parsley, and tarragon to flavor chicken, fish, vegetables, soups, omelets, and salads. Chive seed planting is the most common method of propagation. So, how to grow chives from seed? Let's find out.
Chive Seed Propagation
Chives are grown primarily for their culinary uses, but the herb may also be grown for its lovely, light purple flowers and flourishes in containers as well as in the garden proper. A member of the onion or Amaryllidaceae family along with garlic and leeks, chives are native to northern Europe, Greece, and Italy. This hardy, drought tolerant perennial grows to between 8 and 20 inches (20-51 cm.) high in clumps via underground bulbs. Chives have hollow, round leaves much like onions, although smaller. I propagate my chives by dividing my massive decade-old chive plant but growing chives from seed is the common method for starting this herb; unless you live next door to me, in which case, please, come get one!
“How To” Guide to Chive Seed Planting
Growing chives from seed is a simple process, as seed germinates easily, albeit slowly. Sow seed ½ inch (1 cm.) deep in flats of peat-based soilless mix. Keep the flat consistently moist and in temps of between 60 and 70 degrees F. (15-21 C.). At four to six weeks and once all danger of frost has passed, the chive seedling can be transplanted outside. Planting chive seeds can also occur directly outside in the garden once the soil has warmed. Space plants 4 to 15 inches (10-38 cm.) apart in rows 20 or more inches (51 or more cm.) apart. As mentioned, propagation can be from chive seed, transplants, or division. Divide the plants every two to three years, separating new plants into clumps of about five bulbs each. When planting chive seeds, the soil should be rich, moist, and high in organic matter with a soil pH of between 6 and 8. Prior to planting the seedlings, amend the soil with 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm.) of composted organic matter and apply 2 to 3 tablespoons of all purpose fertilizer per square foot of planting area. Work this in down to 6 to 8 inches (15-20 cm.) of soil. Chives thrive in full sun, but will do well in partial shade. Fertilize the plants a few times during the growing season with bone meal and manure or a well-balanced commercial fertilizer. Side dress with 10 to 15 pounds (4.5-7 kg.) of nitrogen two times during the growing season and keep the herb consistently moist and the area weeded.
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