Chinese Chives Neko

Allium schoenoprasum - Neko

Chives - a perennial herb with delicate, hollow green stems and attractive purple-pink flowers. Originally from Asia and Europe, this popular culinary herb is easy to grow and perfect for both garden beds and containers. Blooms from May to June with distinctive globe-shaped flower heads. The mild onion-flavored leaves are excellent for fresh use in cooking.
Thrives in sunny locations. Hardy to -27°C (frost resistant). Grows vigorously and can be divided every few years. In shady locations, growth may be slower but still productive. Prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Water moderately, avoiding waterlogging. For container growing, use quality potting mix. Fertilize every 14 days during the growing season with liquid fertilizer applied to soil, not foliage.

• Requires sunny location to partial shade. Direct intense sunlight may cause stress. Chives are relatively demanding regarding watering – the soil must not dry out completely, but waterlogging is also harmful. Regular cutting benefits the plant, prevents flowering, and promotes continuous fresh growth.

• Sow seeds in March or April in pots with quality soil. Standard garden compost or potting mix is suitable. Scatter seeds on the surface and cover lightly with soil, water gently, and place in a warm, sunny location to encourage germination. Seeds typically germinate within 5 days.

• Requires humus-rich soil that is well-draining yet moisture-retentive. Ideal substrate is loamy-sandy with higher calcium content. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.

• During the growing season, fertilize plants with complete NPK fertilizer in liquid form every 14 days. Suitable fertilizers include Cererit, Kristalon, or specialized herb fertilizers.

• On leaves and stems of various Allium species, orange-yellow to orange raised pustules may appear in spring. If such pustules appear on your plants, this indicates onion rust (leek rust). Control can be achieved by spraying with Saprol New fungicide. Plants are occasionally attacked by nematodes; in this case, we recommend planting marigolds or calendula nearby, which repel nematodes.

• Harvest soft chive stems as needed. Do not use flowering stems, as they become tough and lose flavor. Pinch or cut them off – the plant loses part of its aroma when producing flowers.