How to grow Chives in the UK
Allium schoenoprasum
Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) is a herb that grows well in UK gardens. Perennial — comes back every year. Flowers attract pollinators and look great in salads. This guide covers when and how to sow Chives, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Chives
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar Sow | Apr Harvest | May Harvest | Jun Harvest | Jul Harvest | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Light, free-draining soil; many herbs resent winter wet
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Sun or light shade
- Sowing depth
- Surface to 1 cm
- Spacing
- 20–30 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow spring or divide clumps; easy perennial
- Growing
- Keep moist for lush leaves
- Harvest & upkeep
- Cut to 5 cm for regrowth; edible pink flowers; divide every few years
- Watch for
- Trouble-free; mild mildew
Companion planting for Chives
Grows well with:
Keep apart from:
Add Chives to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Chives FAQs
When should I sow Chives in the UK?
In the UK, sow Chives in March. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Chives?
Chives grows well alongside Apple, Beetroot, Blackcurrant, Carrot, Cherry, Gooseberry. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
What should you not plant near Chives?
Keep Chives away from Asparagus Pea, Broad Bean, Dwarf French Bean, Lupin, Mangetout, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Chives need?
Chives prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Chives ready to harvest?
Chives is typically ready to harvest in April, May, June, July, August, September, October in the UK.
Is Chives easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Perennial — comes back every year. Flowers attract pollinators and look great in salads.