Thompson & Morgan Organic Herb Chives - 79853
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Thompson & Morgan Organic Herb Chives ‘Staro’ are ideal for both beginner and experienced gardeners looking to add a reliable, low-maintenance perennial to their kitchen garden. These chives provide a mild, versatile onion flavor perfect for culinary garnishes while supporting local ecosystems by attracting pollinators to the garden. While they are exceptionally easy to grow and return year after year, home gardeners should be prepared for a germination window of two to three weeks when starting seeds indoors.
All features
| Model Part Number | Staro |
|---|---|
| Brand | Thompson & Morgan |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Are the flowers of the ‘Staro’ chive edible?
Yes, the pink and purple flower heads are edible and make a beautiful, flavorful garnish for salads.
When is the best time to sow these chive seeds?
You can sow them directly outdoors in early spring, or start them indoors under glass from March to June.
How deep should I plant the seeds?
Seeds should be sown at a depth of approximately 1cm.
Do I need to replant them every year?
No, as a hardy perennial, ‘Staro’ chives will return year after year, provided they are cared for correctly.
What is the mature size of the plant?
The plants will reach a maximum height of approximately 20cm and a spread of up to 15cm.
Can I grow these in pots?
Yes, they are well-suited for pots, provided the container has good drainage and receives plenty of sun.
Troubleshooting
Seeds are not germinating
Ensure the soil remains consistently moist and that the temperature in the propagator stays between 18-21°C for the full 14-21 day period.
Seedlings look weak or spindly
This often indicates a lack of sufficient light. Move your seedlings to a brighter, sunny location or adjust your grow lights.
Plants are wilting in the garden
Check the soil moisture level. While they are hardy, they require consistent water, especially in the weeks immediately following transplanting.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Reliable perennial that returns annually
- Attracts beneficial pollinators to the garden
- Highly versatile for various culinary applications
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor growing environments
Cons
- Requires 14-21 days for germination
- Needs protection from frost when young
- Limited to a maximum height of 20cm
Setup, Compatibility & Care
To establish your chives, follow these guidelines for optimal growth:
- Direct Sowing: Sow outdoors from early spring in a well-prepared seedbed. Space drills 30cm apart and plant seeds at a depth of 1cm. Thin seedlings to 23cm apart.
- Indoor Starting: From March to June, sow in pots using moist seed compost. Maintain temperatures between 18-21°C using a propagator.
- Transplanting: If starting indoors, move seedlings to 7.5cm pots (4 per pot) once large enough. Acclimatize the plants to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days before moving them to the garden.
- Placement: Ensure they are planted in a location that receives full sun and has well-drained soil.
- Maintenance: Keep the soil moist and ensure the plant is spaced 30cm apart to allow for proper airflow and a spread of up to 15cm.