Nelly – Chive Seed

New! Fine- to medium-leaf chive.
Uniform, upright habit with fine-to-medium, dark green leaves. Fine-leaf chives are popular for fresh use and bunching due to their slender leaves which give a nice, refined appearance on the plate.

Specs:

• Packet: 200 seeds
• Avg. 19,300 seeds/oz

DAYS TO GERMINATION: 7-14 days at 65–70°F (18–21°C).
SOWING: Direct seed (recommended): In spring, sow 1/4″ deep as soon as the soil warms up. Place 4-6 seeds every 6″ or 1-2 seeds per inch. Thin to 2-3 plants every 2-8″. Keep free of weeds.
Transplant: Start seeds in flats 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Sow several seeds per plug, thinning to 3-4 seedlings per plug. Transplant seedling clusters 2-8″ apart in rows 18″ apart.
LIGHT PREFERENCE: Sun/Part Shade.
SOIL REQUIREMENTS: A fairly rich soil that is high in humus.
PLANT HEIGHT: 12-18″.
PLANT SPACING: 2-8″.
HARDINESS ZONES: Zones 3-9.
HARVEST: Individual leaves may be harvested once the plants are established. Harvest leaves before flowering begins. Leaves can be harvested 3-4 times per year, cut at ground level.
Leaves may be used fresh or dried. To dry, cut bundles into 1/4- 1/2″ lengths. Spread one layer on a screen, allowing for air circulation. Place in a well-ventilated location out of direct sunlight. Stir periodically while drying.
Note: Mature chive clumps should be divided every 3 to 4 years.
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Allium schoenoprasum