Crop Diversification in Ontario: Adaptation of Chives

Abstract

Chives, (Allium schoenoprasum) consumption and production are increasing in Ontario. Rust (Puccinia allii F. Rudolphi) has been a problem with some chive cultivars for some growers, and in Ontario, basic information on production is nonexistent. The objectives were to identify cultivars with high yields, disease resistance and winter survivability. Plantings of six cultivars of chives were established in 2002 and 2003 in two contrasting environments, on organic (Kettleby) and mineral (Simcoe) soils; and one cultivar of garlic chives (A. tuberosum) at Kettleby. Leaves were harvested to a length of 30 cm, weighed and assessed for visible signs of rust. In Spring 2003, the number of dead plants was recorded to determine the overwinter survivability of each cultivar. Performance varied among cultivars and between locations. In Simcoe, Staro produced the highest yield in 2002 while generic (unnamed) chives produced the highest yield in the second year. In Kettleby, yield was similar among cultivars in 2002 but in 2003 generic chives produced the highest yield. Overwinter survival also varied between locations and second season yields were much higher in Kettleby. Less snow cover and subsequent winter injury is a possible explanation for the lower yields and poorer winter survival in Simcoe. No symptoms of rust were found in either location. Chives are a viable crop in Ontario, and appear to have different adaptability to regional soils and climates.