Herbs :: Chives

Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)

Chives are the smallest member of the onion family and are always referred to in plural since they grow in clumps, rather than individual plants. Chives are native to all continents and were first used by the Chinese more than 5000 years ago. As cullinary herbs, chives are grown for their leaves, which have a much milder and sweeter taste than their onion relatives. Shredding or cutting the leaves is a common way to use chives as garnish or condiments for various dishes, particularly in French cuisine.

Chives complement onions, potatoes, artichokes, corn, tomatoes, peas, cauliflower, asparagus, carrots, spinach and other vegetables, particularly in salads. They are also an excellent companion to poultry, fish, shellfish, veal, cheese and eggs. Common household uses are as garnish for baked potatoes and as topping for various dips. Add chives to your food at the very last moment when cooking soups, stews and sautes. Nearly everything is better with fresh chives!

Care and Harvesting Instructions for your Kitchen Pick Potted Chives

Herbs do not like cold temperatures! Please do not put them in your fridge or in any area where they would encounter temperatures below 54F (12C). The ideal location for your Kitchen Pick herb is, as the name suggests, in your kitchen. You can place it in a bright windowsill in a small dish or on a small plate so you can water your Kitchen Pick herb as it grows. Remember, your herb is a living plant that will continue to grow and provide quality flavour as you use portions of it in your food preparation. Do not allow your herb to dry out to the point of wilting as this will cause leaf tip burn and shorten it's life-span. You can use a light soluble fertilizer with every watering to keep it growing and providing you with fresh picked herbs.

The best way to harvest portions from your Kitchen Pick herb is to snap or tear small pieces off the plant with your fingers. Your can use scissors to cut sections, but this is actually more harmful to the plant.