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Chives are a versatile, low-maintenance herb that add a mild onion-like flavour to dishes. They are great for garnishing and enhancing the taste of salads, soups, and various meals. Growing chives from seeds in your kitchen garden is easy and ideal for those who want to keep fresh herbs close by.
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Chives don’t take up much space, making them perfect for small garden areas or even pots on a windowsill. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, planting chive seeds offers a satisfying way to bring fresh flavour into your kitchen. In this guide, you will go over the essential tips for planting and caring for chive seeds, so you can enjoy this delightful herb year-round.
Tips For Planting Chive Seeds In Your Kitchen Garden
Choosing The Right Container Or Spot
When planting chive seeds, it’s important to select the right spot or container. Chives grow best in an area that gets plenty of sunlight, about 6-8 hours per day. If you’re planting chives indoors, place the pot near a sunny windowsill. Chives don’t need a very deep pot, but ensure it has good drainage to prevent the soil from getting too soggy. Containers that are at least 6 inches deep work well.
Preparing The Soil
Chives grow best in nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. If you’re planting in a garden bed, loosen the soil a few inches deep to improve aeration and add some compost for extra nutrients. For potted chives, a potting mix with added organic matter is ideal. Chives prefer slightly moist soil but don’t thrive in overly wet conditions, so aim for soil that holds moisture without becoming waterlogged.
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Planting The Seeds
Sow the chive seeds directly into the soil about 1/4 inch deep and cover them lightly with soil. Space seeds about 1 inch apart, as chives don’t require a lot of space to grow. After planting, water the soil gently to settle it around the seeds. Make sure not to overwater, as this can cause the seeds to rot. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds start sprouting, which usually takes about 10-15 days.
Also Read: How To Grow Turnip In Your Kitchen Garden?
Watering Chive Plants
Once the chive seedlings begin to grow, water them lightly whenever the top of the soil feels dry. Chives do best when the soil stays consistently moist, but be careful not to overwater, especially in pots where drainage might be limited. If you’re unsure, check the soil’s moisture level by sticking a finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
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Fertilising Chives
Chives don’t require heavy fertilisation. A balanced, all-purpose fertiliser can be applied once in early spring to boost growth. Over-fertilising can cause the chives to grow too quickly, reducing their flavour, so it’s best to fertilise sparingly. Organic compost or slow-release fertilisers are ideal for providing chives with gentle, long-lasting nutrients.
Harvesting Your Chives
Chives are usually ready for harvest within 60 days of planting. When they reach about 6 inches in height, you can start cutting the leaves. Use clean scissors to snip a few inches above the soil, cutting only the leaves you need, which encourages the plant to keep growing. Avoid cutting the entire plant down to the ground; leaving some growth allows the plant to regenerate quickly.
Image Credits: Freepik
Pest Control And Maintenance
Chives are generally resistant to pests, but they can occasionally attract aphids or fungal infections. To prevent this, avoid overwatering, which can create a damp environment that encourages fungal growth. If pests appear, spraying the plant with a mild soap solution usually helps. Regularly trimming your chives and removing any dead or yellowed leaves keeps the plant healthy and productive.
