How to Grow and Care For Chive Plants
About Chives
Chives are a perennial plant in the Allium family. They are native to Asia and Europe, but are widely cultivated throughout the world as a culinary herb and ornamental plant. Chives have slender, hollow leaves that are green in color and have a mild onion flavor. They are often used to add flavor to soups, salads, and other dishes. Chives are also known for their attractive purple flowers, which bloom in the summer. This herb growing guide will walk you through growing chives from seed to your plate.
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Allium schoenoprasum
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Suitable for gardeners of all levels
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Up to 2 weeks
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Early spring
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4-5 weeks
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Generally considered safe, but check with a veterinarian before introducing to pets.
Sunlight
Chive plants prefer full sun to partial shade and will grow best in locations that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, they can tolerate some shade and may still produce decent foliage in shadier locations. It is important to monitor the soil moisture in shadier locations as the soil may dry out more slowly and can lead to root rot if left unchecked.
Temperature Needs
Chive plants prefer cool temperatures and will grow best in environments where the temperature stays between 50-70°F. They can tolerate some fluctuations in temperature, but extreme heat or cold can stress the plants and may lead to reduced growth or death. It is important to protect chive plants from frost, as they are frost-sensitive and will not survive prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures. In areas with hot summers, providing some shade during the hottest times of the day can help protect the plants from heat stress.
Watering Requirements
It is important to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged, for chive plants. Water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and be sure to thoroughly soak the soil. Avoid letting the plants sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot. It is also a good idea to use a well-draining soil to help prevent excess moisture from accumulating around the roots.
Best Soil for Lavender Plants
Chive plants prefer a well-draining soil with a neutral pH level of 6.5-7.0. A good soil mix for chives can be created by combining equal parts of loam, sand, and compost. Alternatively, a good quality commercial potting mix or garden soil can also be used. It is important to avoid using heavy, clay-based soils as they can retain too much moisture and lead to root rot. It is also a good idea to add some compost or well-rotted manure to the soil to improve its fertility and structure. If you are unsure about the pH level of your soil, you can test it using a soil testing kit, which can be purchased from a garden supply store or online.
Recommended Lavender Varieties
There are many varieties of chives available, each with its own unique flavor and growing habits. Here are a few popular options:
Common chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are the most well-known variety, with a mild onion flavor. These chives are easy to grow and are suitable for a wide range of climates.
Garlic chives (Allium tuberosum) have a subtle garlic flavor and are a popular choice for adding flavor to Asian dishes.
Giant Siberian chives (Allium ledebourianum) are a hardy variety with large, flat leaves and a milder flavor than common chives.
Chinese chives (Allium tuberosum var. chinense) have a stronger flavor and aroma than common chives, and are often used in stir-fries and dumplings.
Siberian chives (Allium nutans) have delicate, lavender-colored flowers and a mild onion flavor. They are more cold-hardy than common chives and can tolerate harsh winter conditions.
Starting Lavender From Seed
Here are six steps for growing chives from seed:
Fill a seed tray or pots with well-draining seed compost and water well.
Sow the chive seeds on the surface of the compost, leaving enough space between them to allow for seedling growth.
Cover the seeds with a layer of vermiculite or fine grit to help keep them in place.
Place the seed tray or pots in a location that receives indirect sunlight and has a temperature of around 60-70°F.
Water the seeds regularly, keeping the compost moist but not waterlogged.
Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots or into a prepared bed in the garden. Make sure to space the plants at least 6 inches apart to allow for proper growth.
Companions Plants of Chives
Chive plants make good companion plants for a variety of vegetables and herbs. They have a natural pest-repelling effect and can help deter aphids, carrot flies, and Japanese beetles when planted near susceptible crops such as carrots, tomatoes, and roses. In addition, chives can improve the flavor and growth of brassicas, such as broccoli and cabbage, when planted nearby.
Harvesting
Chive plants can be harvested as soon as the leaves are long enough to use, usually around 4-6 weeks after planting. It is best to harvest the leaves before the plants start to flower, as the leaves tend to become tough and bitter once the plants start to bloom. You can harvest the leaves by snipping them with scissors, leaving about an inch of the leaves above the base of the plant to allow for regrowth. Chives can be harvested throughout the growing season, and you can also harvest the purple flowers for use as a garnish.
Dehydration
Here are five steps for dehydrating chives:
Wash the chive leaves and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Spread the chive leaves in a single layer on a dehydrator tray lined with parchment paper.
Place the tray in the dehydrator and set the temperature to 95-100°F.
Dehydrate the chives for 6-12 hours, or until they are completely dry and crispy.
Once the chives are fully dehydrated, remove the tray from the dehydrator and let the chives cool completely. Store the dehydrated chives in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Dehydrated chives will keep for up to 6 months when stored properly.
Susceptible Diseases
Here is a list of some common diseases and pests that can affect chive plants:
Damping off: This fungal disease affects seedlings and can cause them to wilt and die.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a powdery white or gray growth on the leaves and can weaken the plants.
Rust: This fungal disease causes orange or yellow pustules to form on the leaves and can reduce the plant's vigor.
Slugs and snails: These pests can chew holes in the leaves and can be controlled using slug bait or by removing them manually.
Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can infest chive plants and can be controlled using a strong spray of water or by applying an insecticidal soap.
Carrot flies: These flies can lay their eggs at the base of chive plants, and the emerging larvae can damage the roots. Covering the plants with a floating row cover can help prevent carrot flies from laying eggs on the plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Chives are not toxic to pets and are generally considered to be safe for consumption by cats and dogs in small amounts. However, as with any new food, it is always a good idea to introduce it to your pet gradually and in small amounts to ensure that they do not have any adverse reactions. Contact a medical professional with any questions or concerns.
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The best time to plant chives depends on your location and the climate. In general, it is best to plant chives in the spring, once the risk of frost has passed.
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It is generally a good idea to avoid planting chives near alliums such as onions, leeks, and garlic, as they can be prone to cross-pollination, and near beans or peas
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It is generally recommended to plant chive plants about 6 inches apart to allow for proper growth. This will give the plants enough space to establish their roots and produce healthy foliage. If you are planting chives in a row, it is a good idea to leave at least 12 inches of space between the rows to allow for easy access to the plants for maintenance and harvesting.