Care schedule
- Watering
- Maintain consistent moisture Source: University of Minnesota Extension
- Feeding
- Once each spring Source: University of Minnesota Extension
- Light
- Full sun, 6–8 hours Source: University of Minnesota Extension
- Frost
- Tolerates light frost in most climates · typical
Each line links to its published source. Your pot, light, season and climate matter more than the calendar.
Care tips
- Snip leaves an inch above the soil.
- Divide clumps every few years.
- Flowers are edible too.
In GoodKeap
Save your chives to get these reminders in Upkeap, log each watering and feeding, add progress photos, and see weather prompts for your address.
From university extension guides
Each line links to the published guidance it came from.
Light
Full sun, 6–8 hours
Chives thrive in full sun, though they can tolerate light shade; six to eight hours of direct light is best.
Source: University of Minnesota ExtensionChecked Oct 2026
Watering
Maintain consistent moisture
Plants thrive in well-drained soil rich in organic matter and need regular watering to prevent wilting.
Source: University of Minnesota ExtensionChecked Oct 2026
Feeding
Once each spring
Use a very light application of a 5-10-5 fertilizer once each spring if the plant begins to weaken.
Source: University of Minnesota ExtensionChecked Oct 2026