Garden herbs

Herb: Chives (Allium Schoenoprasum)

Background: One type of chive was originally cultivated in China and was probably used throughout Asia.

Garden herb type: Annual.

Growing this herb: Chives is grown from seed. It needs to be re-sown every 2-3 years as the flavour tends to diminish. Sow in shallow drills at the beginning of March. Thin the seedlings to 30cm apart. Chives can be grown in a container. In spring or autumn the clumps can be divided and the flowers should always be cut off to maintain flavour for as long as possible.

Soil condition and garden position: Moist, rich soil. Can be put in pots during the autumn and be brought indoors to provide a winter supply.

Appearance: Chives grow to 30cm in height and have thin grass like leaves which grow from clumps of tiny bulbs. The flowers are small, round and pale mauve in colour.

Uses: Chives are good in omelettes, scrambled eggs and in all sorts of salads. They can be chopped up very finely and sprinkled over cooked new potatoes.

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