Chives have an onion-like flavor that comes from the robust stems which are generally chopped finely and great to add to almost any savory dish; use in sour cream, cream cheese, soups, and on your morning eggs, etc. The light lavender flowers can be added to your favorite salad, just break the head apart. Grows 8-12". 100 seeds Please note that germination rates for alliums (onions/shallots/chives/leeks) decline rapidly. We strongly encourage you to purchase new seed each growing season. PLANTING Allium schoenopraum Perennial, zones 4-9 Germination: 4-10 days Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 65-75ºF Seed Planting Depth: Sow ¼” deep Starting Indoors: Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Sow in flats 1/4” deep, 1/4” apart. Transplant seedlings out mid/late spring, 4-6” apart. Sowing Outdoors: In early to mid-spring when the soil temperature reaches 55-60ºF. Sow a group of seeds, 4-6” apart. Thin out or let grow to fully mature plants. Growth Habit: Columnar Height and Width: 12-18” x 12-24” Spacing: 4-6” apart Light Needs: Full sun to light shade Soil Needs: Chives need fertile, well-drained soil Flowering: 70-80 days Harvest: Start harvesting once the leaves are pencil-sized and/or plants are established. Use fresh, dried, or freeze. Uses: Culinary, edible flowers, flowers attract bees and beneficial insects Care: Divide clumps every few years to keep the plants productive Tips: Self-seeds, remove seed heads if you do not want volunteers. Grow well in containers
