How to Grow and Care for Chives

Chives, also known as Cive, Wild chives, Rush leek, Schnittlaugh, Onion grass

Chives thrive in full sun to partial shade conditions and require well-draining soil. To ensure optimal growth, regular watering is necessary, but care must be taken to avoid waterlogging which can lead to root rot. Chives respond well to frequent harvesting and light fertilization, which encourages fuller, bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming too woody.

Watering schedule: Every week

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Toxic to Human & Pets

In This Article

Planting and Growing Chives

Toughness	Medium
Care Level	Medium
Care Difficulty	Easy
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Every week
Sunlight Requirements	Full sun
Soil Type	Garden Soil
Soil pH	6-7
Planting Time	Mid spring, Early spring, Late winter, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Hardiness Zones	5-9
Toxicity	Toxic to Human & Pets

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Varieties of Chives

Chives 'Black Isle Blush'

Chives 'Black Isle Blush' is an Alium that produces a blushing head of mauve-pink flowers that are much darker than the light pink flowers of the parent plant. The flowers rise above the leaves on a long stem. This plant is suitable for growing in flower beds, borders, and also in containers.

Chives 'Pink Perfection'

Chives 'Pink Perfection' is a cultivated species of Chive. It is named 'Pink Perfection' due to its small, round, bright pink flowers. It is popular with gardeners as a low-growing plant, and it's what makes it different from other Chive species. Chives 'Pink Perfection' is notably shorter and produces smaller flowers.

Common Pests & Diseases

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The Toxicity of Chives

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More General Info About Chives

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Chives is a perennial herb with slender, hollow, tubular leaves, typically reaching heights of 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm). It forms dense clumps from underground bulbs and emits a mild, onion-like fragrance. This plant showcases spherical, pale purple to pink flowers atop slender stalks, blooming in the late spring to early summer. The flowers and leaves of chives are characteristically used as a culinary garnish or ingredient.