Chives are ridiculously easy to grow and are the perfect addition to any small-space setup. So, grab your teeny-tiny planter, your questionable potting soil, and get ready to cultivate the most vibrant, fragrant chives. They're low-maintenance and will love you no matter how many times you forget to water them.
Chives need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. Partial shade tolerated. Indoors: Ideal for pots; provide bright, indirect light or use grow lights for 10-12 hours daily.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Chives prefer consistent moisture. Indoors, monitor frequently; outdoors, water regularly, especially in full sun conditions.
Chives are perennial and flourish in 40-85°F, ideally 60-70°F. Plant outdoors in April-May and August-September in NYC zone 7b. Indoors, 60-70°F year-round.
Indoors: 6-8" wide, 6" deep, 1 gallon; Outdoors: 8" wide, 6-8" deep, 1-2 gallons
Chives prefer a loamy potting mix with organic compost or worm castings. Make sure your pot has good drainage to prevent root rot.
Use 10-10-10 fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Organic options: worm castings, compost. Chives benefit from occasional nutrient boosts to support rapid growth.
Chives are ready for harvest 60-90 days after planting, or when the leaves are 6-8 inches tall. Outdoors, chives live for 3 to 5 years, die back in the winter and grow again in the spring. Indoors, chives can live for several years.
Cut chives back to about 1 inch above soil to encourage new growth. Regular trimming keeps the plant healthy and productive, ensuring a steady supply.
Yellow Leaves: Ensure good drainage, let soil dry. Slow Growth: Add balanced fertilizer. Wilting: Water consistently. Pests (Aphids): Spray with soapy water or release green lacewing larvae. Diseases (Rust): Improve air circulation, use fungicide.
There are around 10-15 varieties of arugula gardeners commonly grow. One of the perks of growing arugula at home is the opportunity to experiment with different varieties that you won't find at the grocery store.
Do you have any questions or requests? I'm here to help!