Chives
Allium schoenoprasum. Chives belong to the Amaryllidaceae family along with garlic and onions. Chives come in various cultivars, each presenting unique characteristics, including common chives, garlic chives, and Siberian chives and are celebrated for their delicate onion flavor and culinary adaptability. Chive plants grow in clumps, producing graceful, grass-like foliage.
Starting Seeds
Chive seeds germinate best in warm soil temperatures, with the ideal range for germination falling between 65°F (18°C) and 70°F (21°C). However, the optimal temperature is typically around 68°F to 70°F (20°C to 21°C).
Direct sowing is possible if you live in a warm climate. Otherwise start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks prior to your last frost date.
When to Plant Out
Chives should be transplanted outdoors after the last expected frost date once the weather has warmed and the soil temperatures consistently reach at least 50°F (10°C) or warmer.
Light
Full sunlight: at least 6-8 hours a day.
Space
Space plants 6-12″ apart. Be sure to check the seed packet for specifics on your variety’s size.
Temperature
Chives thrive in temperate conditions, with ideal daytime temperatures ranging between 60°F and 70°F (15°C to 21°C). While chive plants can tolerate slightly cooler nighttime temperatures, they perform best when nighttime temperatures remain above 40°F (4°C).
Chives are hardy to Zone 3. The tops will be killed by a severe frost, but the roots will overwinter with new foliage returning the following Spring.
Water
Keep the soil consistently moist. Water at the base of the plants to keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of diseases.
Pruning
Aside from harvesting, prune chives to remove floppy or diseased growth. Remove flowers to refocus the plant’s energy into foliage and prevent volunteer plants from spreading throughout the garden. In the fall when the plant goes dormant, prune chives down to the ground.
Harvesting
To harvest chives, use a pair of scissors or garden shears to snip off the desired amount of foliage, leaving about 1-2″ of growth above the soil level to allow for regrowth.
Propagation
Chives are typically propagated through division or seeds. When propagating chives from division, it’s best to do so in late summer. Carefully dig up an established chive clump and divide it into smaller sections, making sure each division has healthy roots and foliage. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil, spacing them adequately apart.
Other Considerations
Chives are suitable for container growing and can be grown indoors during winter for continuous harvests.