Chives - Key Growing Information
DAYS TO GERMINATION:
Sprouts usually show in 7–14 days when held at 65–70°F (18–21°C).SOWING:
Sowing in place is recommended. Plant 1/4" deep in spring once the soil has warmed, either in clusters of 4–6 seeds spaced 6" apart or at 1–2 seeds per inch. Thin so that 2–3 plants stand together every 2–8", and keep the bed weeded.For transplants, sow in flats about 6–8 weeks ahead of the last frost, dropping several seeds in each plug and thinning to 3–4 seedlings. Set the clusters out 2–8" apart, with 18" between rows.
LIGHT PREFERENCE:
Full sun to partial shade.SOIL REQUIREMENTS:
Reasonably fertile soil rich in organic matter.PLANT HEIGHT:
12-18".PLANT SPACING:
Space 2–8" apart.HARDINESS ZONES:
Hardy in Zones 3–9.HARVEST:
Start snipping leaves once plants are established, ideally before they flower. Cutting at ground level, you can harvest 3–4 times a year.Use the leaves fresh or dried. To dry, cut them into 1/4–1/2" pieces and spread them in a single layer on a screen in an airy spot out of direct sun, stirring now and then.
Note: Divide mature clumps every 3–4 years.
