Can chives be harvested in the first year of planting?
Chives are a common vegetable in our country, with diverse ways of eating and high nutritional value, and are very popular in the market. They are currently planted in most regions, so can chives planted in the first year be cut?
1. Can chives planted in the first year be cut?
Chives planted in the first year can be cut. When harvesting, they can be cut at the appropriate time according to the growth of the chives and market conditions. Generally, harvesting in the morning is best, and it is advisable to cut down to the yellow leaf sheath about 3-4 cm above the bulb. Chives grown in greenhouses can be cut three times a year; the first crop's growth period is 30-40 days, and afterward each crop's growth period is about 25 days.
2. When is the best time to plant chives?
Chive sowing time can be divided into three types: spring sowing, summer sowing, and autumn sowing:
1. Spring sowing: It is better to sow early than late. In spring, when the local soil temperature stabilizes at 5-10°C, sowing can begin. At this time, the ground has not completely thawed through, the soil-returning period has not yet arrived, and the surface is relatively moist, making it very easy for seedlings to emerge. This sowing method also avoids weed damage, because after sowing the chive seedlings emerge relatively quickly, while the temperature at that time is not yet suitable for weed germination, creating a time difference. Therefore, everyone is recommended to use this sowing method as much as possible.
2. Summer sowing: Generally carried out after cucumbers and tomatoes are cleared from the garden. At this time, the temperature is high and drought and waterlogging are likely to occur. The sowing rate should be about one-third greater than in spring. The soil cover should not be too thick, and the soil should be kept moist to help ensure full seedling emergence.
3. Autumn sowing: Generally carried out around the Beginning of Autumn. The sowing rate should be twice that of spring, and management should mainly follow the principle of seeing dry and seeing wet. In the later period, attention should be paid to weed damage. Autumn sowing is generally not recommended.
Overall, chives planted in the first year can be harvested. When harvesting, try to harvest in the morning, and greenhouse-grown chives can be harvested three times a year.