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How to Grow Chives in a Pot

Chives grow well in 8-inch pots and come back every year. Cut them to 2 inches and they regrow in 2 weeks. Almost impossible to kill.

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How to Grow Chives in a Pot

Chives grow well in 8-inch pots and come back every year. Cut them to 2 inches and they regrow in 2 weeks. Almost impossible to kill.

Chives are the most forgiving herb. They survive frost, drought, and neglect.

Container Setup

FactorRequirement
Pot8-inch minimum
Sun4-6 hours
SoilWell-draining
WaterWhen top inch is dry
LifespanPerennial (5+ years)

Step-by-Step

1. Sow 1/4 inch deep. 10-14 days to germinate.

2. Thin to 6 inches. Or plant in clumps.

3. Water regularly. Don’t let soil dry completely.

4. Cut to 2 inches. Harvest entire stems.

5. Divide every 2-3 years. Dig up, split, replant.

Harvest

  • Cut to 2 inches above soil
  • Regrows in 2 weeks
  • Don’t cut more than 1/3 at a time

Common Questions

Do chives come back every year? Yes. Perennial.

How do I harvest? Cut to 2 inches. Regrows fast.

Can I grow them indoors? Yes. 4-6 hours of light.

Are the flowers edible? Yes. Mild onion flavor.

How do I divide them? Dig up clump in spring. Split with knife.

Why are they turning yellow? Overwatering or too crowded.

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