Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are a hardy perennial herb valued for their mild onion flavor. They are typically started from seed, either indoors to get a jump on the growing season or direct-sown into the garden bed. Growing chives from seed requires understanding the specific environmental cues the seeds need to germinate. Cultivating chives requires patience, as their initial development is slower than many other common garden herbs.
The Expected Germination Timeline
The period between sowing and the first appearance of chive seedlings usually takes seven to fourteen days under optimal conditions. Successful initial sprouting relies heavily on consistent warmth and moisture in the planting area. However, it is not unusual for the process to take slightly longer, sometimes extending up to twenty-one days. This variation is often attributed to differences in seed viability or slight fluctuations in the growing environment. Chives are slower to emerge compared to fast-sprouting herbs like basil or dill, so observing a two-week wait before visible growth is normal.
Essential Conditions for Successful Sprouting
Achieving successful germination requires providing specific environmental signals that prompt the seed to break dormancy. The most important factor is maintaining an ideal soil temperature, consistently ranging between 60°F and 70°F (15°C to 21°C). Cooler temperatures will significantly slow the metabolic processes required for the seed to sprout.
Moisture management is equally important, as seeds need constant hydration to swell and begin growth. The planting medium must be kept evenly moist throughout the entire germination period, but never waterlogged. Excessive moisture restricts oxygen availability and increases the risk of fungal issues like damping off.
Proper sowing depth ensures the small seeds have the energy to push through the soil. Chive seeds should be planted very shallowly, generally no more than 1/4 inch deep. A light covering of fine soil or vermiculite is often used to ensure good seed-to-soil contact without burying the seeds too deeply.
Care After Germination and First Harvest
Once seedlings emerge, attention shifts to developing strong, mature plants. Chives naturally grow in dense clumps, so thinning is necessary to allow adequate space for this growth habit. Instead of thinning to individual plants, leave small clusters of three to four seedlings spaced six to eight inches apart. This practice encourages the multi-stemmed, clumping growth habit.
The young plants require significant light exposure, ideally needing full sun conditions (six or more hours of direct light daily). If chives are started indoors, they need supplemental lighting from a dedicated grow light. This prevents the thin, grass-like leaves from becoming leggy and weak. Consistent watering must continue after germination, ensuring the soil remains moist, as chives do not tolerate prolonged drought.
The first harvest typically occurs 60 to 90 days after sowing, once the blades are several inches tall. When harvesting, use sharp scissors to snip the leaves from the outside of the clump. Cut them back to about one to two inches above the soil line. Leaving a short stub encourages the plant to quickly regrow new, tender shoots, maintaining productivity throughout the season.