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How to Grow Chives

easyGardeningseasonal5 steps

Safety Warnings

  • Keep out of reach of pets if using certain organic fertilizers.

Tools Needed

Hand trowel — Standard garden size
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Pruning shears — Sharp cutting blades
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Materials

Chive seeds or division — Allium schoenoprasum(As needed)
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Potting mix — Well-draining, organic(1 bag)
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Mulch — Organic compost or shredded bark(2-3 inches deep)
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Steps

1
Prepare well-draining soil rich in organic matter, ensuring it is loose and fertile.
Tip: Chives prefer a sunny location with moist, well-drained soil.
2
Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep or plant divisions 6-12 inches apart.
Tip: Planting divisions provides a faster harvest than seeds.
Plant division 6-12" apart Loose soil Side view · Space divisions to allow root expansion
3
Water the soil consistently, keeping it moist but not waterlogged.
Tip: Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot.
4
Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Tip: Compost works best as a mulch and fertilizer.
Apply mulch Chive leaves Garden soil Top-view detail · Mulch retains moisture and protects the root zone
5
Harvest by snipping the leaves from the top or outside of the clump using shears.
Tip: Always leave about 2 inches of growth above the soil to allow the plant to regenerate.
Snip leaves Leave 2" base Mulch layer Harvesting · Cut stems from top or outside to encourage regrowth

Pro Tips

  • Divide chive clumps every 3-4 years to maintain plant vigor.
  • Allow the plant to flower in some areas to attract pollinators.
  • Chives are perennial and will return year after year in most climates.

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Sources

Synthesized from 2 verified sources:

Old Farmer's AlmanacView →
Old Farmer's AlmanacView →