Goretti Bagaya, a commercial farmer based in Fort Portal, says cultivating fresh herbs in your backyard is one of the simplest and most effective ways to enhance your cooking while enjoying the benefits of gardening.
She explains that growing your herbs allows you to elevate the flavours of your dishes while ensuring a steady supply of fresh, organic ingredients.
According to Bagaya, homegrown herbs offer a practical and cost-effective way to improve your diet, reduce grocery expenses, and promote a healthier lifestyle.
Among the many herbs that flourish in home gardens are chives (Allium schoenoprasum). They stand out due to their versatility, low maintenance, and ability to impart a delicate onion-like flavour to various dishes.
These hardy perennials are easy to grow and can thrive in diverse environments, making them an excellent choice for both seasoned and beginner gardeners.
Sharon Naluwende, a nutritionist at Mulago Hospital, explains that chives belong to the onion family and are characterised by their long, slender green stalks and striking purple flowers.
“Rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, chives not only enhance the taste of food but also offer several health benefits,” she says adding that their natural antibacterial and antioxidant properties support digestion, boost immunity, and promote overall well-being.
Whether you have a spacious garden or a small backyard, growing chives is a rewarding endeavour that requires minimal effort but yields significant benefits.
With proper care, Bagaya explains that these resilient herbs can provide a fresh supply of flavorful greens throughout the year, adding both nutritional and aesthetic value to any home garden.
Gideon Zakke, an agronomist, explains that chives thrive in well-draining soil with moderate moisture. They prefer full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade.
“The best soil for chives is loamy or sandy with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Good soil preparation is key to ensuring healthy growth,” he advises.
Zakke suggests starting chives from either seeds or transplants.
“If you are using seeds, sow them in small holes about 1 cm deep and 15 cm apart. If using transplants, space them at least 20 cm apart to allow proper growth,” he adds.
Bagaya has grown chives successfully for several years. She emphasises the importance of organic matter in soil preparation.
“Before planting, I mix compost into the soil to boost fertility. Chives love nutrient-rich soil, and adding organic matter ensures they remain lush and productive.”
Watering and maintenance
Chives require consistent but moderate watering.
“Water them at least twice a week, especially in dry seasons,” Zakke recommends.
“However, avoid overwatering as this may cause root rot. The key is to keep the soil moist but not soggy.”
Bagaya mulches around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. This reduces the need for frequent watering and keeps the plants healthy.
“I also trim the chives regularly to encourage continuous growth.”
Fertilisation and pest control
Chives do not require heavy fertilisation.
“Applying organic compost or a balanced fertilizer every six weeks is enough to keep them thriving,” Zakke explains.
He warns against the excessive use of chemical fertilisers, which can affect the flavour and health of the plants.
Bagaya stresses the importance of natural pest control.
“Chives naturally repel many pests, but sometimes aphids can be a problem. I use a homemade garlic and neem solution to keep pests away without using harmful chemicals.”
Harvesting and storage
Harvesting chives is simple and can be done multiple times in a season. “Once the chives reach about 15 cm in height, they are ready to be harvested,” Zakke advises.
“Use a pair of scissors to cut them about 5 cm from the base, allowing them to regrow.”
Bagaya explains her harvesting routine: “I harvest small amounts regularly rather than cutting all at once. This ensures I always have fresh chives available. If I need to store them, I either dry them in a shaded area or freeze them to maintain their flavour.”
