How to Grow Chives

Updated June 2026

A year-round herb for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

Chives are a rewarding year-round crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

In frost-free regions chives can be grown almost year-round. Elsewhere, plant in the milder months on either side of summer. See your region on the chives page for exact timing.

Varieties

Common Chives, Mild onion flavor (garden centers)
Garlic Chives, Flat leaves, garlicky (Baker Creek)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 6 in between plants.
Sowing: barely cover the seed.
Water: roughly 0.8 gal per plant every 3 days in hot weather.
Containers: grows well in a pot of 6 in+.

Pests & problems

In humid regions, Downy mildew and Rust can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Chives are usually ready to harvest in about 2 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant chives where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

Find your region →