Chives

A perennial, hardy species of onion (Allium schoenoprasum), whose small, slender, hollow leaves, chopped fine, are used for flavoring salads, stews and soups. Handled like onions, the small oval bulbs multiply rapidly, form clumps, develop abundant foliage 6 to 8 inches high and small round heads of tiny lavender flowers.

As both foliage and flowers are attractive in appearance (though onion-scented), the plants are often used for edging flower beds; but unless the flower-heads are cut or the seed is gathered promptly, self-sown seedlings may prove troublesome weeds. For best results the clumps should be divided every second or third year.


Growing Chives

Growing Cultures
Outdoors, containers, hydroponics.

Plant Height
Chives grow to a height of 12 to 18 inches (30 - 45cm).

Plant Spacing
Chives should be spaced 6 to 9 inches (15 - 22cm) apart.

Preferred pH Range
Chives will grow in a relatively wide pH range between 6.1 (mildly acidic) and 7.8 (mildly alkaline).

Propagation
From seed. Start seeds indoors six weeks before planting outdoors. By division, leaving about a half a dozen small bulbs in a clump which will develop nicely into a full size plant.

Seed Germination Period
15 to 21 days.

Seeds Per Gram (Approximate)
Between 200 and 750.

Soil Requirements
Well drained, fertile and rich in humus.

Alternative Growing Media
Soilless potting mixes, perlite, vermiculite, rockwool, coco peat, Oasis foam.

Time From Seed to Saleable Plant
Seeds to finished plugs, 12 to 16 weeks; plugs to saleable plants, 11 weeks.

Sun & Lighting Requirements
Chives grown outdoors prefer full sun.

Chives will grow indoors satisfactorily under standard fluorescent lamps, and exceptionally well under high output fluorescent , compact fluorescent, or high intensity discharge (metal halide or high pressure sodium) plant growing lights. Keep standard fluorescent lamps between 2 and 4 inches from the tops of the plants, high output and compact fluorescents approximately one foot above the plants, and HID lights between 2 and 4 feet above the plants, depending on wattage. Have an oscillating fan gently stir seedlings for at least 2 hours per day to stimulate shorter, sturdier, and more natural plant habit.


USDA Hardiness
Zones 3a to 9b.

Water Requirements
Water on a regular schedule, taking care to not overwater.

Potential Pests & Diseases
Aphids, thrips. Minimal disease issues.

Special Notes
Chives are known to attract bees and repel deer.