How to Grow and Care for Chives
Introduction
The leaves of
chives are used in all kinds of sauces and salads to lend a delicate onion flavor. Flat-leaved garlic chives combine the flavor of
onion and
garlic.
About chives
Once you plant chives in your garden, chances are you'll always have them. Chives are hardy perennial plants and can be easily dug up and divided when they get too large. Plus, the attractive purple flowers scatter their seeds, so you likely see numerous chive seedlings each spring.
Choosing a site to grow chives
Choose an area in full sun to part shade. Chives prefer rich soil and will tolerate either moist or dry conditions.
Planting Instructions
Start plants from seed, purchase a plant or two, or dig up part of a clump from a neighbor's garden. If seeding, plant in mid-to-late spring. Sow in clusters 1 to 1-1/2 feet apart.
Ongoing Care
Water young plants throughout the growing season. Once established, mature chive plants need minimal care. Remove flowers after they bloom to prevent plants from self-sowing. Small clumps of chives potted in the fall will grow indoors. Divide the plants every three or four years.
How to harvest chives
You can begin harvesting about six weeks after planting or as soon as established plants resume growth in the spring. As you need leaves, cut the outer ones right back to the base. Use them fresh or frozen; they do not retain their flavor well when dried.
