How To Plant, Grow And Care For Chives

A chive is a small, bulbous herb that belongs to the same family as onions, garlic, and leeks. It’s known for its long, thin, hollow leaves that resemble grass blades. Chives are commonly grown for their flavorful leaves, which have a mild onion taste.

Chives are mostly grown in temperate regions around the world. They are relatively easy to cultivate and can thrive in a variety of soil types and climates. They’re often found in home gardens as well as commercial herb farms.

This herb has been used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits, such as promoting digestion and boosting the immune system. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects.

Plant Parts

The Chive plant can be divided into various parts, including bulbs, long, hollow leaves, and small lavender-colored flowers.

• Bulb: Chives grow from small bulbs beneath the soil. These bulbs are similar in appearance to small onions but are much smaller.

• Leaves: The most recognizable part of the chive plant is that the leaves are long, thin, and hollow. They grow in clusters from the bulb and can reach lengths of about 6–10 inches (15–25 cm).

• Flowers: In the late spring or early summer, chive plants produce small, round, lavender-colored flowers. These flowers are edible and add a delicate onion flavor to dishes.

Chives are incredibly versatile and easy-to-grow herbs, adding a mild oniony flavor to dishes. To plant chives, choose a sunny or partially shaded location with well-draining soil. They prefer well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Amend heavy or compacted soil with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Here’s a step-by-step guide to planting them: 

When To Plant

The ideal time to plant chives depends on your climate and whether you’re using seeds or transplants.

Spring:

• Seeds: In temperate climates, sow seeds outdoors directly in the garden 4-6 weeks before the last frost. This gives them enough time to establish themselves before the summer heat arrives.
• Transplants: Plant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, typically in late spring or early summer.

Fall:

• Seeds: In warmer climates, consider sowing seeds in the fall, 6–8 weeks before the first frost. This allows for a fall harvest and winter protection.
• Transplants: Generally not recommended for fall planting as they need time to establish before winter.

If you live in a colder climate or want an earlier harvest, you can start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost and transplant them outdoors later. Early spring is generally the safest and most successful time to plant chives in most climates.

Where To Plant

Chives are known for their adaptability and can grow in a wide range of climates, thriving in USDA zones 3–9. This means they can be grown throughout most of the United States, from the cold winters of Maine to the warm summers of Texas. Plant them in an area that receives full sun for at least 6–8 hours. They can tolerate light shade, but their growth and flowering will be reduced.

Raised beds are a good option if you have poor soil or want to improve drainage. They also allow you to control the soil quality more easily. These herbs are also well-suited to container gardening and can be grown on patios, balconies, or even indoors in a sunny window. Choose a pot that is at least 6 inches deep and has drainage holes.

Similarly, chives can be planted alongside other herbs, such as parsley, basil, and thyme. They can also be used as an edging plant in herb gardens.

How To Plant

There are two main ways to plant chives: sowing seeds directly outdoors or planting seedlings you’ve started indoors or bought from a nursery. Here’s a breakdown for sowing seeds:

The best time to sow seeds outdoors directly in the garden is 4-6 weeks before the last frost in temperate climates. In warmer climates, consider sowing seeds in the fall, 6–8 weeks before the first frost.

Process:

• Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Amend the soil with compost or organic matter if necessary.
• Sow seeds about 2 inches apart and no more than ¼ inch deep.
• Cover seeds lightly with soil.
• Water gently and keep the soil moist until seedlings emerge, which can take 1-2 weeks.
• Once seedlings reach 2-3 inches tall, thin them to 4-6 inches apart.

If planting bulbs, dig small holes about 1-2 inches deep and space them 6–8 inches apart. Place bulbs with the pointed end facing up and cover with soil.

Growing chives from seedlings is straightforward and generally offers a faster harvest than sowing seeds directly outdoors.  You can buy seedlings from your local nursery or garden center. Choose healthy-looking plants with strong stems and green leaves. Wait until the danger of frost has passed before planting outdoors. This usually falls in late spring or early summer.

Before planting, choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They prefer well-draining, fertile soil. Amend your existing soil with compost or organic matter if needed. You can also use a good-quality potting mix if planted in a container.

Planting Process

• Dig holes slightly deeper than the root ball and twice as wide.
• Gently remove seedlings from their pots, avoiding disturbing the roots too much.
• Place the seedling in the hole, ensuring the root ball sits at the same level as it did in the pot.
• Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the base of the plant.
• Water thoroughly.

If you’re planting in containers, choose a pot that is at least 6 inches deep and has drainage holes.

Caring for chives is generally not difficult, as they are low-maintenance plants. Whether grown from seeds or transplants, here are the key ways to care for them.

Sunlight

Provide chives with full sunlight or partial shade. Aim for at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth. If grown indoors, place them near a sunny window where they can receive adequate light.

Soil

Plant chives in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Loamy or sandy soil enriched with organic matter is ideal. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Watering

Chives prefer moist soil, especially during hot weather and when actively growing. Water them deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Container plants may dry out faster, needing more frequent watering. During rainy periods, reduce watering to prevent waterlogging.

Fertilization

Chive plant don’t require heavy feeding. A balanced fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) is sufficient. Alternatively, you can use compost tea or diluted fish emulsion as natural alternatives.

Mulching

Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, around chive plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the base of the plants to prevent rotting.

Dividing

Every 3–4 years, you can divide established clumps of chives to rejuvenate them and create new plants. Simply dig up the clump, carefully separate smaller sections with roots, and replant them in suitable locations.

Winter Care

In colder climates, chive plants may die back in winter and regrow in spring. Mulching around the base of the plants can help protect them from freezing temperatures. Alternatively, chives can be grown indoors in pots year-round.

Pruning your chives, both outdoors and indoors, isn’t strictly necessary. But, it can encourage healthier, bushier plants and improve your harvest. Here’s how to prune chive:

When to Prune

• After flowering: If you let your chives flower, consider pruning after the blooms fade. This prevents seed formation and encourages more leaf production.
• For bushier growth: Regular light pruning throughout the season can lead to a denser, bushier plant.
• Anytime during the growing season: You can prune chives whenever you see fit, but it’s best to avoid the hottest part of the day.

Pruning Techniques

• Cutting: Use sharp scissors or a knife to cut chives at the base of the stem. Avoid taking more than half the plant at a time.
• Pinching: For smaller harvests, simply pinch off individual leaves or small groups of leaves.
• Deadheading: If you have flowers, remove them by pinching off the individual flower buds or cutting the entire flower stalk.
• Thinning: If your chive plant is overcrowded, you can thin it out by carefully digging up and removing smaller clumps, leaving space for remaining plants to thrive.

Additional Tips

• Prune more frequently during the growing season for a continuous harvest.
• Avoid pruning during the hottest part of the summer, as this can stress the plants.

Chives can be easily propagated through division, which is the most common and reliable method. The best time to propagate chives through division is in early spring, just as new growth begins, or in the fall before the first frost. These times coincide with periods of active growth, giving the divided plants the best chance to establish themselves.

Choose a healthy, mature chive plant with several well-established clumps of foliage. After that

1. Dig up the entire plant from the ground or remove it from its container if it’s grown in one.
2. Use a clean knife or trowel to gently separate the clump into smaller sections, each with healthy roots and shoots.
3. Replant the divided sections in prepared holes, ensuring the crowns are at the same soil level as before.
4. Water thoroughly and keep the soil moist until it is established.

This method provides faster results, as established divisions start growing immediately and can be harvested within weeks. The plant maintains its desired characteristics. You’ll propagate chives with the same traits as the parent plant.

Harvesting chives is a simple yet rewarding process that allows you to enjoy their delicious oniony flavor throughout the season. The best time to do so is when the leaves are mature but still tender, typically in the spring and summer months. Wait until the chive leaves are at least 6 inches (15 cm) long before harvesting. This usually occurs in the spring or early summer, when the plants are actively growing. Harvest in the morning or evening, when temperatures are cooler, for optimal flavor and freshness.

Harvesting Process

• Tools: Use sharp scissors or a knife for clean cuts.
• Method: There are two main approaches:
  • Individual leaves: Choose specific leaves you need, cutting them at the base of the stem.
  • Whole plant: For larger harvests or rejuvenation, cut the entire plant back to about 2-3 inches above the ground.

Additional Tips

• Avoid taking more than half the plant’s leaves at once. This ensures sustainable growth and prevents weakening.
• To encourage more leaf production and prevent seeds, remove flower buds before they open.
• You can also harvest chive flowers for their milder flavor, using them in salads or garnishes.
• Regular harvesting promotes bushier plants, tender leaves, and continuous growth.

Storing chives, a kale companion plant properly is essential to maintaining their freshness and flavor for as long as possible. Here are some of the ways to store chives:

Fresh Chives

If you’ve harvested fresh chives from your garden or purchased them from the store, start by rinsing them gently under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Refrigeration

Place the fresh chives in a plastic bag or wrap them loosely in a slightly damp paper towel. This helps to retain moisture without causing the chives to become soggy. Alternatively, you can store them in a perforated plastic bag to allow for airflow.

Drying Chives

Another option for preserving chives is to dry them. Hang bundles of chives upside down in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Once completely dry, remove the leaves from the stems and store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Dried chives can be used as a seasoning in various dishes.

There are two primary types of chives called Common Chive and Garlic Chives. Both varieties are suitable to grow as houseplants.

Common chive (Allium schoenoprasum)

This is the most widely available and recognized type of change. It has thin, hollow, grass-like leaves that grow to about 12–18 inches tall and form attractive purple flower heads in late spring and summer. The leaves have a mild oniony flavor and are used fresh or dried in various culinary applications.

Garlic chives (Allium tuberosum)

Also known as Chinese chives, this variety has broader, flat leaves with a stronger, garlicky flavor compared to common chives. The leaves grow to about 10–15 inches tall and produce white flowers in clusters in late spring. The flower buds and edible tubers (hence the name “tuberosum”) can also be used in cooking.

Besides these two popular types, here are some other less common, but interesting, chives you might consider growing:

• Giant Siberian chives (Allium giganteum)
• Garlic chives, ‘Fireworks’ (Allium tuberosum)
• Chives ‘Walker’s Low’ (Allium schoenoprasum)

Ultimately, the best type of chives for you depends on your personal preferences, desired flavor profile, and available space. 

Chives are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but they can occasionally encounter issues. Here are some common pests and diseases that may affect chives, along with prevention methods:

Pests

Common pests that affect chive plants include: aphids, thrips, and onion maggots.

• Aphids

  • These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of chive plants, causing the leaves to wilt and deform. To prevent aphids, encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil if infestations occur.

• Thrips

  • Thrips are tiny, slender insects that feed on chive foliage, causing leaves to become distorted and discolored. Regularly inspect plants for signs of thrips and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.

• Onion Maggots

  • The larvae of onion maggots feed on the roots of chive plants, leading to wilting and stunted growth. Prevent onion maggot infestations by rotating crops, using row covers, and practicing good garden hygiene.

Diseases

Common diseases encountered by chive plants are:

• Downy Mildew

  • Downy mildew is a fungal disease that causes the yellowing and wilting of chive foliage, often accompanied by grayish mold on the undersides of leaves. Improve air circulation around plants, avoid overhead watering, and apply copper fungicides preventatively.

• Powdery Mildew

  • Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on chive leaves, leading to stunted growth and reduced vigor. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation, avoid overcrowding plants, and apply sulfur-based fungicides as needed.

• Leaf Spot

  • Leaf spot diseases cause dark spots to develop on chive foliage, eventually leading to leaf yellowing and defoliation. Remove and destroy infected plant debris, practice crop rotation, and apply fungicides preventatively if necessary.