3 AB Chives

Chives, smaller than chives, are sometimes known as civets and are part of the traditional herb mix. It forms a clump of thin, hollow, round-sectioned leaves 15 to 25 cm long, and in early summer boasts a multitude of pink, onion-flavored flowers in the shape of a small pompon.

Chives are hardy perennials that can be grown in the ground, in containers or in pots.

How to grow chives

Hardy and able to thrive in the most difficult conditions, chives prefer cool, relatively rich soil and sunny exposure.

Transplant chives in early autumn or spring, after the last frosts, 15 to 20 cm apart in all directions.

Mulch the plants to keep the soil cool and moist, water in dry spells, and cut them back at the end of the season.

Prune regularly or divide clumps every 2 to 3 years to give plants greater vigour and encourage the production of fresh, fragrant new stems.

For more information, consult our guide to transplanting plants.

When and how to harvest chives?

Chives can be harvested all year round, as and when required. Cut off the peripheral leaves, as close as possible to the base of the clump, using a chisel. Sprigs are best stored whole or snipped in the freezer, as they tend to lose their aroma and flavor when dried.

How to propagate chive plants?

Although chives reproduce from seed, they can also multiply very easily by simply dividing clumps. For this method:

• dig up an attractive chive plant 15-20 cm in diameter, using a spading fork, in spring or autumn;
• divide the clump by cutting cleanly through the center with the cutting edge of a spade;
• replant immediately;
• water regularly until the first signs of recovery appear.

Which companion plants for chives?

In the garden, chives encourage the growth of carrots. Planted in orchards, they protect them from scab.

Chives: a must-have herb?

This aromatic herb, in the same family as garlic and onions, has a fresh, garlicky taste. Its leaves are eaten fresh, raw or cooked, and flavour salads, savoury tarts, stews, stuffings and more.

Along with parsley, chervil and tarragon, chives are one of the 4 traditional herbs used in recipes for omelettes and fromage frais with herbs.

Shipping and delivery of Ciboulette plants

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