Garlic Chive

Garlic Chive is a hardy, perennial herb that forms dense clumps of flat, green leaves with a rich garlic flavour. Unlike traditional chives, these plants produce taller, sturdier leaves that are perfect for harvesting throughout the season.

The plant’s elegant white flowers bloom in late summer, attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Drought-tolerant and adaptable, garlic chives are well-suited for herb gardens, container growing, or as an ornamental border in flower beds. Their edible flowers add a mild garlic flavour to dishes, making them a great addition to salads, stir-fries, and herb blends.

Where Can You Grow Garlic Chive?
Garlic chives thrive in Zones 3-9, preferring full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Once established, they require minimal care and will continue to grow year after year.

History and Historical Uses
Originally cultivated in Asia, garlic chives have long been valued for their culinary and medicinal uses. In traditional Chinese medicine, they were believed to promote digestion and boost immunity. Today, they remain a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine, adding a robust garlic flavour to a variety of dishes.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8-9: Direct sow in autumn or early spring for strong root establishment.
Zones 5-7: Start seeds indoors in late winter or direct sow in spring.
Zones 3-4: Grow in a sheltered location and mulch over winter for protection.

How to Grow and Harvest Garlic Chive

• Planting: Sow seeds 6mm (1/4in) deep, spacing plants 15-30cm (6-12in) apart.
• Watering: Keep soil moist but well-drained; drought-tolerant once established.
• Harvesting:
  • Cut leaves as needed, leaving at least 5cm (2in) at the base for regrowth.
  • Harvest flowers when fully open for fresh or dried use.
• Maintenance: Trim back flower stalks after blooming to encourage continued leaf growth.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

• Allow to Flower and Seed: Leave some flowers to mature and dry naturally.
• Harvest Seeds: Once seed heads turn brown, collect them before dispersal.
• Dry and Clean: Remove excess plant material and allow seeds to fully dry.
• Store: Keep seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Properly stored seeds remain viable for up to 3 years.

Certified Organic By

Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)