Growing chives from seeds is a rewarding way to cultivate this versatile herb. You can start them indoors or sow them directly in the garden once the weather is suitable.
Getting Started with Chives Seeds
Chives are one of the easiest herbs to grow and can be successfully started from seeds. This method allows you to grow a large number of plants relatively inexpensively.
Key Information from References:
- Chives can be grown from seeds, transplants, or divisions.
- Seed chives as early as possible in the spring.
- Seeds should be planted ¼ inch deep.
- Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches in all directions after emergence.
When to Plant Chives Seeds
Sow chives seeds as early as possible in the spring. This can mean starting seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or sowing directly outdoors once the soil can be worked and the threat of hard frost has passed.
Sowing the Seeds
- Prepare the Soil: Choose a location that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Chives prefer well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost if needed.
- Planting Depth: Plant the small chive seeds about ¼ inch deep.
- Spacing: Sow seeds thickly initially, as germination rates can vary. Once seedlings emerge, you will need to thin them.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the germination period.
- Germination: Chive seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days, depending on conditions.
Thinning Seedlings
After your chive seedlings have emerged and grown a bit (usually when they have a few true leaves), it's crucial to thin them out to allow adequate space for growth.
- Spacing: Thin the seedlings so they are spaced 4-6 inches apart in all directions.
- Why thin? This gives each plant room to develop a strong root system and produce more foliage. You can gently pull out the extra seedlings or snip them at the soil line with small scissors.
Care and Maintenance
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Chives prefer consistently moist soil.
- Sunlight: Provide at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for the best growth.
- Fertilizing: Chives aren't heavy feeders. A light application of balanced fertilizer or compost in spring is usually sufficient.
- Harvesting: You can start harvesting once the plants are established, usually when they are about 6 inches tall. Cut the leaves about an inch above the soil using clean scissors. Regular harvesting encourages more growth.
Quick Reference Guide: Growing Chives from Seed
| Task | Detail | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Early spring | Indoors or directly outdoors |
| Depth | ¼ inch deep | Do not plant too deep |
| Initial Sow | Sow thickly | Helps account for varying germination rates |
| Thinning | After emergence | Thin to 4-6 inches apart |
| Sunlight | At least 6 hours daily | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water | Keep soil consistently moist | Avoid waterlogging |
| Harvest | When plants are 6+ inches tall | Cut 1 inch above soil |
By following these steps, you can successfully grow a productive patch of chives from seeds, enjoying fresh clippings throughout the season.
