Chives
Also known as
Common chives, Garden chives, Wild chives, Cive
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Chives
Allium schoenoprasum, commonly known as chives, is a hardy, clump-forming perennial herb in the onion family (Amaryllidaceae). It grows from small bulbs, producing hollow, tubular leaves with a mild onion flavor prized in culinary use. Mature clumps reach 20–40 cm tall and bear spherical umbels of starry, purple-pink florets in late spring to early summer, which attract bees and other pollinators. The plant spreads slowly by bulb division and self-seeding, remaining well behaved in gardens. Foliage can be harvested repeatedly; regular cutting encourages tender regrowth. Chives prefer cool to temperate conditions, full sun, and moist, well-drained, fertile soil. They are cold-hardy, often dying back in winter and resprouting in spring. Each flower head arises on a leafless scape, and the glossy black seeds mature in papery capsules. In containers, chives adapt well to windowsills and hydroponics, providing a reliable, compact, and ornamental edible. Beyond the kitchen, chives provide ornamental value with their blooms, serve as a companion plant that may help deter some pests, and support beneficial insects.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Chives
Water
Keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. In the ground, aim for about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water per week, adjusting for rainfall, heat, and soil type. In containers, water when the top 2–3 cm of mix feels dry; irrigate thoroughly until excess drains, then empty saucers. Reduce frequency in cool weather and during winter dormancy. Mulch garden plants lightly to conserve moisture, keeping mulch off the crown to prevent rot. Chronic dryness toughens leaves and slows regrowth.
Light
Provide full sun for best yield and flavor—at least 6 hours of direct light outdoors. In hot climates, light afternoon shade preserves tenderness. Indoors, place in a bright south or west window or use LED grow lights for 12–14 hours daily, positioning fixtures 15–30 cm above foliage. Rotate pots weekly for even growth. Insufficient light produces weak, pale leaves and diminished essential oils, while deep shade significantly reduces harvest.
Nutrients
Chives are moderate feeders. At planting, mix in compost or a slow‑release balanced fertilizer (e.g., 5‑5‑5). During active growth, feed lightly every 4–6 weeks with diluted fish emulsion or a balanced liquid at half strength. Overdoing nitrogen produces soft, floppy leaves and milder flavor; emphasize organic matter for steady nutrients and moisture retention. Flush containers occasionally to prevent salt buildup, and taper fertilization in late fall as growth slows or plants enter dormancy.
Temperature
Chives thrive in cool to mild conditions, ideally 60–75°F (16–24°C) by day. They are hardy in USDA Zones 3–9, tolerating frost and typically dying back below freezing, then resprouting in spring. Short heat spells to 85–90°F (29–32°C) are tolerated if plants are kept moist; prolonged heat may reduce flavor or induce dormancy. Indoors, cooler nights (50–60°F / 10–16°C) support sturdy growth. Protect potted plants from repeated freeze–thaw cycles that can heave bulbs.
