Chives

Amaryllidaceae

Hardy bulb-forming perennial with hollow tubular leaves and purple flowers May-June. Zones 3-10 — among the hardiest herbs. Cool-season preference — grows best spring and fall, may go dormant in summer heat. Leaves die back in autumn. Divide every 3-4 years for best productivity. Flowers are edible with mild onion flavor.

At a Glance

Days to Maturity

60–75 days

Sun

6+ hours

6-8 hours, tolerates partial shade

Spacing

6–12 "

Container

Yes

1+ gallon pot

Height

0.5–1 ft

Zone Planting Guide

Your USDA Zone:

Growing Guide

Germination

Optimal Temp 65°F

Watering

Weekly Water 1–1.5 "

Needs Moderate

Soil

pH Range 6–7

Soil Type Rich, organic, well-drained

Resilience

Heat: Moderate Cold: Moderate

Nutrition

Feeding Intensity Moderate feeder

Harvest

Leaves 6+ inches tall. Cut from base.

Sources

university UMN Extension — Growing Chives university UF/IFAS Pasco — Growing Chives

More Herbs

Chives Planting Dates by Zone

Planting dates for Chives vary by USDA hardiness zone. Select your zone below for frost dates, start-indoors timing, and a full monthly planting calendar.

Zone 5A Zone 5B Zone 6A Zone 6B Zone 7A Zone 7B Zone 8A Zone 8B Zone 9A Zone 9B

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