How to Plant Chives Seeds in a Pot

Chives are a popular herb that can be grown easily in a pot. They are grown for their green leaves, which are commonly used as a garnish or to flavor soups, stews, and other dishes. Chives can be grown from seed or from established plants, but growing them from seed is an easy and affordable way to start a chive plant. Here’s how to plant chive seeds in a pot:

Choosing the Right Pot and Soil

The first step in planting chive seeds is choosing the right pot and soil. Chives prefer a well-draining soil, so choose a pot with drainage holes in the bottom to prevent soggy conditions. A pot that is at least six inches in diameter and at least six inches deep is ideal. Use a potting mix that contains peat moss, vermiculite, or perlite to ensure good drainage.

Planting the Seeds

Once you have your pot and soil, it’s time to plant your chive seeds. Begin by moistening the potting mix with water. Then, scatter the chive seeds on top of the soil, spacing them about an inch apart. Gently press the seeds into the soil with your finger or a spoon. Chive seeds don’t need to be buried deeply in the soil to grow, as they require light to germinate. Cover the seeds with a light layer of soil, no more than a quarter of an inch thick.

Caring for Your Chive Plant

After planting your chive seeds, it’s important to care for your plant properly. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water your chive plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Chives prefer full sun to partial shade, so place your pot in a sunny location. If you don’t have a sunny spot, you can grow chives under fluorescent lights indoors. Keep the temperature between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, as chives prefer cooler temperatures.

It’s important to fertilize your chive plant regularly to ensure healthy growth. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, applying it according to the package directions. Chive plants don’t require frequent fertilization, but a once-per-month application of fertilizer during the growing season can help your plant thrive.

Harvesting Your Chives

Once your chive plant has grown to six to eight inches in height, it’s ready to be harvested. Use a pair of scissors to snip the chive leaves about an inch from the base. Leave about an inch or two of growth at the base of the plant to allow new growth to occur. Harvest your chives regularly to encourage new growth and to prevent the plants from becoming too tall and top-heavy.

Chives are a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. By following these steps, you can easily grow your own chives at home in a pot, and enjoy fresh chives whenever you need them.