How to Harvest Chives

Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) grow to heights of between 6 inches and 1 foot at maturity. Chive leaves are round and hollow. They are similar in appearance to onion leaves; however, chives are smaller in diameter than onions. The foliage is a medium green color. During early to mid-summer, like June or July, chives produce large round flower heads. The flowers are purple to pink in color. Some gardeners grow chives purely for the flowers, which are attractive and edible. Chives are not a favorite for deer and they do not require special care.

Things You'll Need

• Chive plants
• Scissors

Show More

Instructions

1. • 1

     Monitor the height of the plant during the growing season. Identify the time when your plant reaches 6 inches high. Expect to wait 60 to 90 days from the time you planted seeds or 30 days after transplanting, until the plant is ready for harvest.

   • 2

     Take your hand and gently surround a selection of leaves from the others growing in the clump.

   • 3

     Measure the selected leaves roughly 2 inches above the ground and cut the leaves at that point with clean, sharp scissors.

   • 4

     Allow the remaining leaves in the clump to continue to grow.

   • 5

     Repeat the cutting process three to four times, at regular intervals, during the course of the harvesting season.