Chives

Chives grow best in well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a pH around 6.0-7.0. Add compost in spring and keep young clumps evenly moist; regular cutting encourages tender new leaves.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Water deeply during establishment; adjust to rainfall and soil

Spacing

8 in

First harvest

1 years

Tips

• Set spring divisions at their original depth, spacing clumps 8-12 inches apart.
• Water new clumps when the top inch of soil dries, without leaving the roots waterlogged.
• Top-dress with compost in spring rather than repeatedly applying high-nitrogen fertilizer.
• Remove flower heads before seeds mature and check crowded clumps for thrips or yellowing foliage.
• Harvest lightly during establishment, cutting leaves about 2 inches above the soil; divide crowded clumps every three or four years.

Plant nursery stock, crowns or divisions at locally recommended times; hardiness and establishment vary.