Chives – Garlic

Allium schoenoprasum – Garlic

• Growing Temp 55°F – 85°F

• Days to Maturity 80-90 days

Hardy, flavorful, and versatile: Garlic Chives, also known as Chinese chives, produce slender, flat leaves with a mild garlic flavor. They are easy to grow and thrive in a variety of conditions, making them an excellent choice for home gardeners. The leaves and edible white flowers can be used fresh in salads, stir-fries, soups, and garnishes, adding a delicate garlic taste to dishes.

Direct Sowing: Plant seeds outdoors after the last frost when soil temperatures are consistently above 55°F. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 6 inches apart in rows spaced 12 inches apart. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination takes 10–14 days. Once seedlings are established, thin them to 8–12 inches apart. Garlic chives prefer full sun to partial shade and will continue to grow perennially in mild climates.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: For an early start, sow seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Use seed trays filled with light potting mix, sowing seeds 1/4 inch deep. Maintain a temperature of 65–75°F for optimal germination. Once seedlings develop multiple leaves, harden them off before transplanting into the garden. Space transplants 8–12 inches apart in well-draining soil. Regular watering and occasional trimming will promote fresh, tender growth.

Harvesting: Begin harvesting once plants reach 6–8 inches tall. Cut leaves at the base, leaving at least 2 inches for regrowth. Regular harvesting encourages continued production. The edible flowers can also be picked when fully open and used fresh in dishes or as a garnish. For best flavor, harvest leaves before the plant flowers, as older leaves can become tougher.