Common Chives

The Leek, 'Allium Ampeloprasum Porrum', has been a staple in European kitchens for centuries. This sweet, mild onion relative won't overpower other flavors in a dish. The Leek is under used and over priced in the U.S. The sweet, mild onion flavor of leeks makes them a versatile addition to many recipes. Leeks can be used as key ingredients in foods or blended without overpowering drained soil. Water the planting bed regularly because uneven moisture will affect taste and texture. Harvest Leeks when about 1 inch in diameter, firm and not too bulbous at the base.

The Chives Common, 'Allium schoenoprasum', has beautiful edible flowers and delicate onion flavored foliage.The Common Chives are at home anywhere. Not many plants do as many things as this plant does and are as easy to grow, maintain, and they come back every year. The Chives plant is 12 inches tall and has narrow, hollow leaves. Plant in the early spring as soon as the soil can be worked or 2 months before first fall frost. Chives prefer rich, well drained soil.

The Watermelon Crimson Sweet, 'Citrullus lanatus' has a high sugar content flesh that is very sweet and crisp. The Crimson Sweet would qualify as a low calorie snack or dessert. What is the first word that comes to your mind when you think of watermelon? Summer? Vacation? This watermelon will not disappoint with its very sweet (an astonishing 12% sugar level), 21 to 25 pound fruit with bright red flesh. Plant in the spring after the last frost. Watermelon use a lot of water but the soil must never be soggy.