The Germination of Chives

Germination

• Chives germinate easily, but slowly. They will germinate at the soil surface or can be covered with 1/2 inch of soil. When starting indoors, a peat-based, soilless growing medium and a soil temperature of 60 to 65 F is ideal. Plant seeds in spring or fall. Maintain moist soil to keep seeds from drying out. Rich and well-drained soil is key to productive chives. They can grow in full sun or part shade and can even thrive in a window garden.

Growth

• Once established, seedlings are thinned to 6 or more inches apart. If started indoors, seedlings are transplanted to the garden once they reach four weeks of age. Chives grow slowly and sometimes take a full year to grow large enough for harvesting. Their first year after growing from seed, chives grow 18 inches. In subsequent years, they will grow 10 to 14 inches.

Harvest

• Each chive seed produces a clump of chives, which can be harvested at any point when leaf size is sufficient, probably at a height of 6 inches. This may occur as early as 60 days after planting, but sometimes takes a full year. For a continuous harvest the first year, cut leaves three or four times during the year. Cut back monthly in subsequent years. Leaves are cut 2 inches above the soil surface and will keep growing each time they are cut. New growth from cutting is tender, while older leaves can become tough over time. Remove flowers when they emerge in May or June.

Division

• To prevent overcrowding and propagate large crops, divide chives starting three years after planting. Divide clumps of bulbs into groups of five and replant them to prevent congestion and promote productivity and hardiness. This process should be performed every two to three years thereafter. Space the plants 4 to 15 inches apart, depending on the type of chives you are growing, and provide moisture and care until roots reestablish.