Moisture range
25–45%
Days to maturity
60–80
Light
Full sun
Growing Degree Units
500 · base 50°F
Growing notes
The easiest and most successful way of growing chives is planting rooted clumps in spring, after frost danger has passed. You can easily grow chives indoors in a bright, sunny location.
Harvest signs
Harvest chives by snipping leaves from the base of the plant. Chives are most flavorful when fresh.
▶Planting reference— spacing, pH, light
Companions & antagonists
Plant near:CarrotTomato
Keep apart from:BeansPeas
Tip: Perennial clump - divide every 3 years.
Common questions
How much water does chives need?
Chives is water-sensitive — shallow roots and a steady thirst. Keep soil moisture in roughly the 25–45% range and don't let it dry out fully, or growth stalls and leafy crops turn bitter.
Can I grow chives in a raised bed or container?
Chives is a perennial that stays put for years, so give it a permanent in-ground spot or a large, deep container it can live in long-term.
Does chives come back every year?
Yes — chives is a perennial. Plant it once and it comes back each year, so pick a spot it can keep for several seasons.