Lyla Lindsey
Chives are a versatile herb that can be grown all year round in warm climates and from spring to autumn in cooler areas. They are native to Europe, Asia, and North America and are a member of the onion and garlic family. Chives are easy to grow and can be planted in a variety of soils, though they thrive in full sun to partially shaded positions. They are ideal for pots, making attractive grass-like plants in herb beds, and can be grown indoors on a sunny windowsill. Chives can be used to flavour dishes such as fish, poultry, eggs, and salads, and their edible flowers can be used as a garnish.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Soil | Chives will grow in most soil types, but prefer soil that is slightly moist, light, and fertile. |
| Sunlight | Chives thrive in full sun to partial shade. |
| Climate | Chives can be grown in temperate, subtropical, and tropical regions of Australia. In temperate regions, sow seeds from September to May. In subtropical regions, sow seeds any time of the year. In tropical regions, sow seeds during the dry season from April to July. |
| Watering | Chives can survive dry periods but thrive with extra water during the summer. Ensure the root system is well hydrated, and mulch to retain moisture. |
| Fertiliser | Chives don't require fertiliser during winter. They don't like very acidic soils, so apply lime or dolomite to the soil once or twice a year. |
| Harvest | Harvest in 7-11 weeks. Continuous harvest promotes new growth. |
| Pests | The smell of chive leaves acts as a repellent for some harmful insect species. |
| Companion Planting | Chives are compatible with carrots, tomatoes, parsley, and apples. |
| Pot Size | If planting in a pot, use one that is at least 30cm wide. |
| Seed Depth | Sow seeds approximately 1cm deep in the soil. |
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What You'll Learn
Chives are easy to grow in most soil types
Chives are a low-maintenance, easy-to-grow perennial herb, grown for their onion-scented tasting leaves. They are definitely not needy and will thrive in just about any type of soil. A little bit of compost mixed through the soil prior to planting is ideal, and if planting in a pot, go for an organic potting mix. Chives in pots should have their soil replaced every three years to ensure flavour and performance is top-notch!
When planting chives, dig over the planting area, incorporating some organic matter—such as compost or leaf mould if the soil is heavy clay. Dig a good-sized hole big enough to easily accommodate the rootball. Place the rootball in the planting hole and adjust the planting depth so that the crown of leaves is at soil level. Mix in more organic matter with the excavated soil and fill in the planting hole. Apply a general granular plant food over the soil around the plants and water well.
Chives grow best in full sun, though they will tolerate light shade. Ideally, the soil should be moist, fertile, and well-draining. Before planting, work in 4 to 6 inches of well-composted organic matter to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. The soil temperature should be between 10°C and 30°C, or between 60º and 70ºF. Chives like to be kept moist, so water them regularly during dry periods. A light mulch of ground-up leaves, compost or grass clippings will help keep moisture in.
Chives are most flavorful when fresh. To keep the plants productive and with the best-flavoured leaves, remove flowers as they form or cut them when young for brightening up salads.
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They thrive in full sun to partial shade
Chives are a versatile herb that can be grown in full sun to partial shade. They are a member of the onion and garlic family and are prized for their delightful onion or garlic flavour. Chives are perennial herbs that are much easier to grow than traditional onions and garlic, and they can be grown in just about any type of soil.
When growing chives, it is important to choose a spot in your garden that receives full sun or dappled sunlight. They can be grown in a garden bed or pot, but they should be protected from strong winds. Chives will thrive in a sunny or semi-shaded position in rich, fertile soil. If you have poorer soil, you can work in some manure and compost beforehand. Chives can also survive dry periods, but they thrive with extra water during the summer to keep their growth lush.
If you are growing chives in a pot, choose one that is at least 30cm wide as chives can form clumps of up to 50cm wide. Use a good quality, well-drained potting mix and ensure that the pot has good drainage. Chives can be grown indoors in a sunny position, but during the winter, when light is poor, you may notice that the plant will not grow much and may even die back a bit. However, it should spring back to life with the return of brighter sun in spring.
In terms of the best months for growing chives in Australia, it depends on the climate. In temperate regions of Australia, sow chive seeds from September to May. In subtropical regions, chive seeds can be sown at any time of the year. In tropical regions, sow chive seeds during the dry season from April to July. Chives are best planted at soil temperatures between 10°C and 30°C.
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Chives can be grown in pots
Chives are one of the easiest plants to grow at home. They are perennials, which means they grow back each spring. They are also one of the first plants to arrive during the cooler season. Chives are ideal for pots, making them perfect for those with limited garden space.
If you're planting chives in a pot, choose one that's at least 30cm wide, as chives can form clumps of up to 50cm wide. The pot should be roughly 8 to 12 inches deep. Chives have a shallow root system, so they need plenty of space to stretch out. Terracotta pots are best because they are more breathable, which helps prevent root rot. Wooden or metal containers can also work, but be aware that they can get especially hot in the sun. Be sure whichever pot you choose has drainage holes at the bottom.
Chives can be grown in a sunny or partially shaded position, as long as they are protected from strong winds. Choose a spot in your garden that attracts sunlight. A little bit of compost mixed through the soil prior to planting is ideal, and if planting in a pot, go for an organic potting mix. Chives in pots should have their soil replaced every three years to ensure flavour and performance. During winter, when light is poor, you may notice that the plant will not grow much and may even die back a bit, but it should spring back to life with the return of brighter sun in spring. It’s advisable not to fertilise during winter.
Chives are generally happy not to be fed at all. If growth seems a little slow, or you have been harvesting a lot, give them a drink of compost tea. To encourage a continuous supply of leaves, cut off the flowers; they are edible, so you can use them in a salad.
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Sow seeds 1cm deep, with 15cm spacing
Chives are a versatile herb that can be grown all year round in warm climates and from spring to autumn in cool and temperate areas. They are a great addition to any garden, with their attractive grass-like foliage and edible purple flowers. Chives are also one of the easiest plants to grow, thriving in just about any type of soil.
When planting chives, it is important to ensure that the seeds are sown to a depth of 1cm and spaced 15cm apart. This allows the seeds to have enough space to grow and develop into healthy plants. The ideal soil temperature for planting chive seeds is between 10°C and 30°C. It is also important to keep the soil moist until germination, which can take up to 21 days.
Chives can be grown directly in a garden bed or in containers. If planting in a pot, choose one that is at least 30cm wide as chives can form clumps of up to 50cm wide. A bright and sunny position, good quality well-drained potting mix, and good pot drainage are essential for chives to thrive. Chives can also be grown indoors, but it is important to ensure that they receive enough sunlight.
To promote continuous growth, it is recommended to harvest chives regularly. Chives can be harvested in 7-11 weeks and are ready when the plants are about 20-30cm tall. The whole plant can be cut down to 4cm from the ground, and the flowers can be removed to increase foliage production.
With their mild garlic or onion flavour, chives are a great addition to dishes such as fish, poultry, eggs, sandwiches, soups, and salads. They are also easy to grow and can be enjoyed all year round with proper care and maintenance.
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Harvest in 7-13 weeks
Chives are a versatile herb that can be grown all year round in warm climates and from spring through to autumn in cool and temperate areas. They are a great addition to any garden, with their attractive grass-like foliage and edible purple flowers. Chives are relatively fast-growing herbs and can be harvested in as little as 7-13 weeks.
When growing chives, it is important to choose a spot in your garden that receives full sun or dappled sunlight. Chives thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, although they may produce fewer leaves and have a weaker flavour if grown in shaded areas. For optimal growth and flavour, provide them with plenty of sunlight. Chives can also be grown indoors in a bright and sunny position.
To plant chives, sow the seeds into rich-quality soil that has been fertilised. The seeds should be planted at a depth of approximately three times the diameter of the seed, or about 1/4 inch deep. Chive seeds germinate best in temperatures between 15°C and 21°C and typically take 7-14 days to germinate, although this can vary. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period and water the seedlings regularly to keep the soil moist.
Once the chive seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, thin them to provide adequate spacing. Space the seedlings about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) apart to allow room for growth. Applying a layer of organic mulch around the chive plants can help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
With continuous harvest, chives will promote new growth. Chives are typically ready to harvest in about 60 days after planting the seeds, when the leaves are long enough to clip and use in the kitchen. Cut the chives from the outside of the clump, leaving a half-inch of stem intact. Regular harvesting stimulates new growth and keeps the plants healthy and productive throughout the growing season.
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Frequently asked questions
Chives can be grown in Australia all year round, as long as the soil temperature is between 10°C and 30°C.
Chives can be grown from seeds or small clumps bought from a garden store. They can be grown directly in the ground or in pots.
Chives will grow in most soil types, but they prefer rich, fertile soil with organic material or fertiliser added. The soil should be well-drained and moist, with a pH level that is not too acidic.
Chives thrive in full sun to partially shaded positions, as long as they are protected from strong winds and dry conditions.
Harvest chives as needed, leaving enough leaves for the plant to recover. Removing the flowers can encourage a continuous supply of leaves.
