Chives thrive in full sun and well drained moist soil rich in organic matter. They tolerate light shade, but 6 - 8 hours of direct light is best. Chives are very hardy perennials in zones 3-10. In cooler climates, you can grow them as annuals. The most ideal temperature for growing chives is 60° F – 72° F. Chives are a excellent herb for your indoor garden. They do very well in containers.
You can plant your chive seeds indoors 8-10 weeks prior the last frost of winter. Transplant seedlings outdoors or direct sow seeds outside after the danger of frost has passed. Chives grow best in sandy or loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. For best results, amend your garden soil with a thick layer of organic or worm compost prior to planting. Test the soil pH; chives do best at 6.0 – 7.0.
Sow your chive seeds 2-3 inches deep. Keep them spaced about 6-8 inches apart or you can thin them to this spacing once they reach about 2-3 inches high. Over-fertilizing can be detrimental to your chives as this plant is not a heavy feeder. A soil rich in organic compost should provide sufficient nutrients for them to grow healthy.
Water chives regular until they become established. Give them a good watering during dry, hot periods. Chives can be harvested about 6 weeks after sprouting.
Cut them off 1/2 - 1 inch above the soil line. This will leave enough of the plant to regrow.
