Table of Contents
Plant Care Guide: Chives
Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are a hardy, perennial herb known for their mild onion-like flavour and attractive purple flowers. They are easy to grow and a great addition to herb gardens, vegetable beds, and container gardens.
Planting
- Best Time to Plant: Sow seeds in early spring to autumn when temperatures are between 10-25°C.
- Soil Preparation: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0, enriched with compost.
- Spacing: Sow seeds 5 mm deep and 15-20 cm apart.
- Sunlight: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially in hot weather.
Care & Maintenance
- Support: Not required.
- Fertilising: Apply a light application of compost or liquid fertiliser every few weeks during the growing season.
- Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to prevent competition for nutrients.
- Mulching: Use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pests & Diseases
- Common Pests: Aphids and thrips may affect young plants. Use insecticidal soap or companion planting to deter them.
- Common Diseases: Root rot can occur in overly wet conditions. Ensure well-draining soil and avoid excessive watering.
Companion Planting
- Good Companions: Carrots, tomatoes, and roses help deter pests and improve growth.
- Avoid Planting Near: Beans and peas, as they may compete for nutrients.
Harvesting
- When to Harvest: Ready in 60-90 days when leaves are 15 cm tall.
- How to Harvest: Use scissors to snip leaves from the base, leaving at least 5 cm for regrowth.
- Storage: Store fresh chives in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or chop and freeze for longer storage.
Bonus Tip
Regular harvesting encourages new growth and prevents plants from becoming woody.
Happy gardening! 🌱
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