Chives are one of my favorite plants in the herb garden. They have the most gorgeous flowers and they’re so easy to grow. It just takes a quick snip to get a handful of an aromatic, tasty add-in for anything tangy- sour cream, Greek yogurt, butter, etc... They also re-seed themselves quite easily so I keep the blossoms clipped off as soon as they're ready to harvest. I just don't want them to spread all over the plot. Once established, they will usually thrive for years but neglect and/or disease can end them. In case I want to start them in a different spot or gift some (they ARE pretty) I save some seeds from year to year. They're very easy to collect!
Start by clipping off the older blossoms. Leave about an inch or so of the stem on them for a "handle." Drop them loosely into a paper bag. Set them aside. Make sure the top of the bag is securely closed and give it a gentle shake every day to make sure the blossoms are getting airflow all around them. Do this for about a week.
Open the bag and see if any seeds are laying in the bottom. If you can see several seeds, it's time to take out the blossoms. Carefully tip them into a container with an edge so the seeds don't roll away.
Pick up each blossom by the stem and give it a little tickle with your other hand to dislodge any remaining seeds. The loose seeds will have a static-like property so be careful not to lose them!
After you've finished tickling the blossoms, carefully scoop up the seeds and put them into an envelope or bag. Store them in a dry place until you’re ready to plant.
