Herbs & Spices· Allium schoenoprasum

Chives Growing Guide

Hardy perennial herb in the onion family, producing slender hollow leaves with mild onion flavor. Popular in fresh culinary markets and home gardens worldwide.

How Long Does Chives Take to Grow?

Chives is typically ready to harvest about 60 days after planting.

60
Days to Harvest
moderate
Water Needs
full sun
Sun Needs

Growing Conditions

Temperature
12-25°C optimal
Rainfall
500-1000 mm/year
Frost Tolerance
high
Drought Tolerance
low
Humidity
moderate tolerance
Heat Tolerance
low

Soil Requirements

Soil Type & pH

Best soil types: loam, sandy loam, clay loam

pH range: 6 - 6.6 (optimal: 6.3)

Drainage: good

Nutrient Needs (N-P-K)

Nitrogen (N)moderate
Phosphorus (P)moderate
Potassium (K)moderate

Planting Guide

Planting Methods
direct seeding, division
Planting Depth
1 cm
Plant Spacing
15 cm apart, 30 cm rows
Planting Season
spring

Yield & Economics

Market Demand
stable
Profitability
medium
Harvests/Year
4

Common Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

  • onion thrips
  • aphids
  • leaf miners

Common Diseases

  • downy mildew
  • rust
  • white rot

Use AI crop disease detection to identify issues early and prevent crop losses.

Growing Tips

Cut leaves to 5 cm above ground level; chives regrow vigorously and can be harvested 3-4 times per growing season.

Divide clumps every 2-3 years in spring to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.

Chive flowers are edible and attractive to pollinators; however, remove spent flower heads to redirect energy to leaf production.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Chives take to grow?

Chives typically takes 60 days from planting to harvest. Seeds germinate in about 14 days. The best planting season is spring.

What soil does Chives need?

Chives grows best in loam, sandy loam, clay loam soil with a pH of 6-6.6. Good drainage is required.

What temperature does Chives need?

Chives grows best at 12-25°C. Frost tolerance: high. Heat tolerance: low.

How much sun and water does Chives need?

Chives thrives with full sun light and moderate watering.

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