How to Grow Chive Plants: The Ultimate Guide

Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are a versatile, easy-to-grow herb that belongs to the onion family. Renowned for their mild onion flavour and delicate, edible flowers, chives are a popular choice for herb gardens, containers, and kitchen windowsills.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about growing and caring for chive plants, from planting and maintenance to harvesting and culinary uses. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned gardener, chives are a rewarding and low-maintenance addition to your garden.

Understanding the Chive Plant

Chives are perennial herbs native to Europe, Asia, and North America. They grow in clumps, with slender, hollow leaves that resemble grass. In late spring to early summer, chive plants produce small, round, lavender-pink flowers that are not only beautiful but also edible.

Chives are valued for their culinary uses, adding a subtle onion flavour to dishes. They are also excellent companion plants, as their pungent aroma helps deter pests like aphids and carrot flies.

Popular Varieties of Chives

There are two main types of chives commonly grown:

• Common Chives (Allium schoenoprasum): Known for their mild onion flavour and purple flowers, they are the most widely grown variety.
• Garlic Chives (Allium tuberosum): Also called Chinese chives, they have flat leaves and a subtle garlic flavour, with white flowers that bloom later in the season.

How to Plant Chives

Chives are easy to plant and grow, making them ideal for gardens, borders, or containers.

When and Where to Plant Chives

• Timing: Sow chive seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost or directly outdoors in early spring. Chive plants can also be divided and transplanted in spring or autumn.
• Location: Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-draining soil.
• Soil: Chives prefer fertile, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter before planting.

Steps for Planting Chives

1. Sow Seeds or Transplant Divisions: Plant seeds 0.5 cm deep, spacing them 15–20 cm apart. For divisions, plant clumps at the same depth they were growing before.
2. Water Thoroughly: Water after planting to settle the soil and encourage root establishment.
3. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Propagating Chives

Chives are easy to propagate through division or seeds.

• Division: Dig up mature clumps every 3–4 years in spring or autumn. Divide the clumps into smaller sections and replant them.
• Seeds: Collect seeds from dried flower heads and sow them in pots or directly in the garden.

Caring for Your Chive Plant

Chives require minimal care and will thrive with just a bit of attention.

Light, Soil, and Water Requirements

• Light: Chives grow best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
• Soil: Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter and well-draining.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply during dry spells.

Fertiliser Needs

Feed chives with a balanced fertiliser or compost in early spring and mid-summer to encourage healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can reduce their flavour.

Pruning and Maintenance

Regular pruning helps keep chives productive and prevents them from becoming invasive.

• Deadheading: Remove faded flowers to prevent the plant from self-seeding excessively.
• Trimming: Trim leaves back to about 5 cm above the soil to encourage fresh growth. This can be done multiple times during the growing season.

Common Pests and Diseases

Chives are generally pest- and disease-resistant, but occasional issues may occur.

• Aphids: Wash them off with water or use insecticidal soap.
• Powdery Mildew: Prevent this fungal disease by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
• Thrips: Use insecticidal sprays to control these tiny pests if they become a problem.

Harvesting Chives

Chives can be harvested throughout the growing season.

• When to Harvest: Begin harvesting once the plants are well-established, typically 60–90 days after planting seeds or a few weeks after transplanting divisions.
• How to Harvest: Use scissors to cut the leaves about 2.5 cm above the soil. Harvest outer leaves first, leaving the inner ones to continue growing.
• Storage: Fresh chives can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For long-term storage, chop and freeze them.

Cooking and Culinary Uses for Chives

Chives are a versatile herb with numerous culinary applications. Their mild onion flavour pairs well with a variety of dishes.

• Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped chives over soups, salads, baked potatoes, or scrambled eggs for a burst of flavour and colour.
• Infusions: Add chives to cream cheese, butter, or vinegar for a fragrant infusion.
• Sauces and Dressings: Use chives in creamy sauces, dips, or vinaigrettes for a subtle oniony note.
• Edible Flowers: Chive flowers can be used to garnish dishes or infused in oils and vinegars for a decorative touch.

Chives complement ingredients like cheese, eggs, potatoes, and fish, making them a staple in kitchens worldwide.

The Joy of Growing Chives

Chives are a rewarding herb to grow, offering beauty, flavour, and functionality. Their easy-care nature and attractive appearance make them suitable for gardeners of all levels.

Whether you’re growing them for their culinary uses, ornamental value, or ability to attract pollinators, chives are a fantastic addition to any garden. Start planting chives today and enjoy their vibrant flavour and charm throughout the growing season.