Planting Guide and Seed Saving Notes for Chives
Chives (Allium)
Chives belong to the same family as onion, leeks and garlic. They are a hardy, drought-tolerant perennial growing to about 10-12 inches tall.
How to Grow Chives from Seed
Bed Preparation
Chives are a perennial that prefers full sun and fertile, well-drained soil.
Planting
Chives can be direct seeded outdoors in early spring. Optimal soil temperatures for germination are 65-85°F. Sow seeds ¼" deep and 3-4" apart. Seeds will germinate in 7-14 days. Thin seedlings so mature plants are 8-12" apart.
Harvest
Chives can be harvested as soon as plants are large enough. Harvest from the outer portion of plant first. Snip leaves so that 1-2" inches remain above the soil. Chives can be used fresh, dried, or frozen for long-term storage.