Last spring frostMay 6
Start seeds indoorsMar 11
Direct sowApr 22
First harvestJun 21
Last harvestOct 22
First fall frostOct 22
Why these dates work in zone 3b
Zone 3b's last spring frost averages May 6 and first fall frost Oct 22 — about 169 frost-free days. Chives tolerates light frost, so you can sow ahead of the last-frost date and keep harvesting into the cooler fall. Starting seeds indoors 8 weeks ahead gives strong transplants ready the moment the soil warms.
Common questions
How long does chives take to grow in zone 3b?
Chives matures in about 60–80 days from sowing. In zone 3b that means sowing around Apr 22 and first picking around Jun 21.
Will chives survive frost in zone 3b?
Yes — chives tolerates light frost. In zone 3b you can sow a little before the last frost (around May 6) and keep harvesting past the first fall frost (around Oct 22).
For soil, spacing, pests and companion planting, see the full chives growing guide →