How to Grow and Care for Chives

Chives are a versatile, perennial herb from the onion family, known for their mild onion flavor and attractive edible flowers. They come in varieties like common chives and garlic chives, each with unique traits. Chives are easy to grow, requiring minimal care, and are perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners. They thrive in full sun and well-draining soil.

• Common Names: Garlic chives, Flowering Onion, Wild Chives
• Scientific Name: Allium schoenoprasum
• Plant Type: Herbaceous, perennial
• Plant Height: 10-15 inches
• Growing Difficulty: Easy
• Growing Time: 30-60 days
• Bloom Time: Spring, Summer
• Temperature: 60-70°F
• Hardiness Zone: 3-9 (Find your hardiness zone here)
• Sunlight: Full Sun
• Soil pH: 6-7
• Watering Frequency: Consistent watering
• Plant Spacing: 4-6 inches apart

Different Methods to Grow Chives

Direct Sowing Outdoors

Sow seeds directly in the garden as soon as the soil is workable in the spring. Seeds should be sown about 2 inches apart and no more than ¼ inch deep. Thin seedlings to 4 to 6 inches apart once they emerge.

• Pros: Simple and straightforward.
• Cons: Seeds may take a few weeks to germinate.

Starting Seeds Indoors

Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last spring frost. Transplants need good growth before being set in the garden. Ideal soil temperature for germination is between 60º and 70ºF (15º and 21ºC).

• Pros: Provides a head start in colder regions.
• Cons: Requires indoor space and equipment.

Propagating by Division

Chives can be easily propagated by dividing clumps every few years. This method not only helps in creating new plants but also improves the health and productivity of the existing plants.

• Pros: Improves plant health and productivity.
• Cons: Requires existing mature plants.

Ideal Soil and Location Requirements

Chives thrive in moist, fertile, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. They prefer full sun but can tolerate light shade. Consistent watering and occasional mulching help maintain soil moisture and control weeds, ensuring healthy growth and high yields.

When to Plant Chives

Chives are best planted in early to mid-spring, as they are cool-season, cold-tolerant perennials. Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost, or sow outdoors once the soil is workable. Ideal soil temperatures for planting range from 60º to 70ºF (15º to 21ºC).

Growing Chives Outdoors

The best method to grow chives outdoors is by planting them from nursery sets in early spring. This method is the easiest because it provides a head start, ensuring a quicker and more reliable harvest compared to starting from seeds, which takes longer to mature.

1. Prepare the soil. Ensure the soil is well-drained and enriched with 4 to 6 inches of well-decomposed compost. This will provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
2. Plant nursery sets. Space the nursery sets 4 to 6 inches apart to avoid overcrowding. Plant them at the same depth they were growing in their pots.
3. Water thoroughly. After planting, water the chives thoroughly to help them establish. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot, dry weather.
4. Provide sunlight. Ensure the chives receive full sun or light shade. Full sun will promote better growth and a more impressive flower display.
5. Mulch the soil. Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to conserve soil moisture and control weeds. This helps maintain a stable growing environment.
6. Fertilize if needed. Top-dress with a nitrogen-heavy fertilizer in late spring or early summer if the soil is not already nutrient-rich. This will support vigorous growth.
7. Harvest regularly. Begin harvesting chive leaves about 30 days after planting nursery sets. Cut the leaves down to the base, within 1 to 2 inches of the soil, to encourage new growth.
8. Divide plants. Every 3 to 4 years, divide the chive clumps in spring to prevent overcrowding and maintain plant health. This also helps in propagating new plants.

Growing Chives Indoors

Growing chives indoors is entirely possible and can be done successfully with the right approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you grow chives indoors:

1. Choose a container. Select a pot with drainage holes that is at least 6 inches in diameter.
2. Prepare the soil. Use a well-draining potting mix enriched with 4 to 6 inches of well-decomposed compost.
3. Plant the seeds. Sow chive seeds about 2 inches apart and no more than ¼ inch deep.
4. Water thoroughly. Moisten the soil thoroughly after planting and keep it consistently moist.
5. Provide sunlight. Place the pot in a sunny windowsill where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
6. Maintain temperature. Ensure the indoor temperature stays between 60º and 70ºF (15º to 21ºC).
7. Thin seedlings. Once seedlings emerge, thin them to 4 to 6 inches apart to avoid overcrowding.
8. Fertilize if needed. Apply a nitrogen-heavy fertilizer in late spring or early summer to support growth.
9. Harvest regularly. Begin harvesting chive leaves about 60 days after seeding. Cut the leaves down to the base, within 1 to 2 inches of the soil, to encourage new growth.

Chives are said to repel aphids and Japanese beetles. Plant them near susceptible plants.

Caring for Chives

1. Consistent Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Chives are drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering ensures a bountiful harvest.
2. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds. This helps maintain a stable growing environment and reduces the need for frequent watering.
3. Fertilization: Chives benefit from a single top-dressing with a nitrogen-heavy fertilizer in late spring or early summer. This boosts growth and ensures the plants remain productive.
4. Pest Management: Chives are generally pest-resistant, but they can suffer from root rot in poorly drained soil. Ensure proper drainage and remove any affected plants to prevent the spread of disease.
5. Regular Harvesting: Begin harvesting chive leaves about 30 days after transplanting or 60 days after seeding. Cut the leaves down to the base, within 1 to 2 inches of the soil, to encourage new growth. Harvest 3 to 4 times during the first year and monthly in subsequent years.

Common Challenges With Chives

Chives are a remarkably easy plant to grow, making them a favorite among both novice and experienced gardeners. They require minimal care once established and are quite resilient, tolerating a range of conditions from full sun to light shade. In my experience, chives are one of those plants that almost thrive on neglect, as long as they have well-draining soil and consistent moisture. They can even be grown in pots, making them a versatile addition to any garden or kitchen windowsill.

However, growing chives does come with its own set of challenges. One common issue is their tendency to spread if the flowers are allowed to go to seed, which can lead to overcrowding. Additionally, chives are susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soil and can be affected by pests like leek moth larvae. Despite these challenges, with a bit of attention to soil conditions and regular division of clumps, chives can be a rewarding and low-maintenance herb to grow.

Safety of Chives for Pets

Chives are toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. If you suspect your pet has ingested chives, contact the ASPCA's 24-hour hotline immediately for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I grow chives in a container and bring them inside during winter?

Yes, chives can be grown in containers and brought indoors for the winter. Ensure the pot has drainage holes and place it in a sunny spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.

How do I harvest chive seeds?

To harvest chive seeds, wait until the flowers have dried. Gently pick apart the dried flowers over a paper to collect the tiny, thin sliver-like seeds. Store them in a cool, dry place for future planting.

What are the different varieties of chives?

There are several varieties of chives, including common chives, garlic chives, giant Siberian chives, and Siberian garlic chives. Each variety has unique characteristics, such as different flavors and growth habits.

How often should I divide chive plants?

Chive plants should be divided every 3 to 4 years in the spring. This practice prevents overcrowding, improves plant health, and promotes better productivity. Dividing also helps in propagating new plants.