Chives plant profile
Allium schoenoprasum
A perennial herb for full sun.
Last updated .
When to plant
When to plant Chives
Most often planted by dividing a clump in early spring. You can also sow seed in spring, though it germinates slowly and takes about 4 to 6 weeks to reach transplant size. Divide established clumps every 2 to 3 years.
The calendar shows this cited seasonal window as an approximate band. It does not convert the season into frost-adjusted dates.
Open Chives in my garden calendarShows the source-backed planting season, not frost-adjusted dates.
Growing conditions
- Sun
- Full sun
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
Common problems
Watch for these
Also watch for: self seeding, overcrowding.
Next steps
Continue with Chives
Evidence trail
Evidence behind this profile
Original extension and institutional publications behind the planting, care, and safety facts on this page.
- Chives (Herb Gardening)
University of Illinois Extension. Supports general reference. Checked 2026-06-11.
- Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) entry
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Supports pet-safety verdicts for dogs and cats. Checked 2026-07-18.