Chives

Chives can be planted by seed now. It is a perennial, a plant that dies down, but comes back again the next season. It also has a pretty pink flower, so it would be a plant that could go into the flower bed; and because it is in the onion family and has an "oniony" smell, it likely will ward off some of the bad bugs, thus protecting the flowers around it.

You can start plants from seed, purchase a plant or two, or ask a neighbor for a division from their chive plants. To starting chives from seed, plant directly in the. Choose a sunny spot with rich, well-drained soil, and sow seeds in clusters 1 to 1-1/2 feet apart. Keep soil evenly moist until seedlings are up and growing vigorously. If you start with purchased seedlings or divisions, plant them 1-1/2 feet apart.

Chives are hardy and need little care. If your soil is moderately fertile, a light mulching with compost in the spring will provide sufficient nutrients. Encourage deep rooting with infrequent but deep watering. Remove blossoms when they have passed their peak. If you harvest frequently and heavily, in addition to compost, fertilize in spring with an organic 5-10-5 fertilizer as directed on the product label. Divide plants every 3 to 4 years in the spring to keep them healthy.

You can begin harvesting about 6 weeks after planting seeds, or as soon as established plants resume growth. Cut outer leaves right back to the base. Use them fresh or frozen; they do not retain their flavor well when dried.

Chives are great on baked potatoes or many other foods. The bulbs, leaves and flowers are edible.