WHEN TO PLANT CHIVES

• Chives are considered a cool-season crop, which means that they grow best in the spring and fall. The harsher temperatures of summer usually cause them to go dormant until cool weather arrives again.
• For a head start in colder regions, start chive seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last spring frost. (See local frost dates.) Transplants need good growth before being set in the garden.
• Outdoors, sow seeds as soon as the soil is workable in the spring. Note that they can take a few weeks to germinate, so don’t panic! For the best germination and growth, the temperature of the soil should be between 60º and 70ºF (15º and 21ºC).
• Plant transplants outdoors once the threat of frost has passed.

CHOOSING AND PREPARING THE PLANTING SITE

• Chives grow best in full sun, though they will tolerate light shade.
• Soil needs to be moist, fertile, rich, and well-draining. Before planting, incorporate 4 to 6 inches of well-composted organic matter. Work compost into the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. (Read more about soil amendments and preparing soil for planting.)

HOW TO PLANT CHIVES

• Sow seeds about 2 inches apart and no more than ¼ inch deep. Cover with a thin layer of soil. 
• Once seedlings emerge, thin so that plants are spaced between 4 to 6 inches apart in all directions.