Chives are popular perennial bulbs that spread to form neat tufted clumps, ideal for edging beds and paths and particularly attractive when in flower.
- This hardy perennial herb prefers full sun and well-drained dry, sandy soil.
- Grows up to 45 cm high and 15 cm wide.
- Plant seeds from April to May. Flowers June/July.
- Regularly harvesting the tops of the pleasantly onion-flavoured leaves, used to flavour all kinds of dishes, also helps to stimulate further new young growth, which has the best flavour.
- The attractive light purple flowers with rounded heads, are edible, make a pretty garnish, and are a favourite of bees and other pollinating insects.
- Chives are easily raised from seed. Plants can be divided.
Garlic Chives
Garlic chives (or Chinese Chives) are particularly attractive, with wider leaves and white flower heads.
- Like chives, garlic chive is a hardy perennial herb which prefers well-drained, light soil.
- Grows up to 40cm high with a spread of 15cm.
- Plant seeds April to May.
Philosophising... 