Garlic Chives Seeds - Allium tuberosum

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

USDA Zones 3-10: Grows as an extremely hardy, clump-forming perennial across almost all zones. It will die back to the ground after the first hard frost and re-emerge vigorously from the roots in early spring.

Best Performance (Zones 4-8): Thrives in these zones with very little care. It establishes quickly, provides a reliable harvest from spring through fall, and returns larger and more robust each year.

Northern Zones (3-4): Exceptionally cold-hardy. Will reliably survive the winter (even in Zone 3) and be one of the first plants to emerge in spring. A 2-inch layer of fall mulch is beneficial in these zones.

Hot Climate Zones (9-10): Very heat-tolerant and performs well. In the most extreme desert heat (consistent temperatures over 100 degrees F), it may benefit from partial afternoon shade and will appreciate consistent watering to keep the leaves tender.

Soil Temperature (for Germination): Requires soil temperatures between 60-70 degrees F for reliable germination. Can be slow and erratic to sprout, so patience is key.

Growing Season (Perennial): As a perennial, this plant has an indefinite growing season. It can be harvested lightly in its first year from seed but will become fully established and highly productive from the second year onward.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

When to Plant (Indoors):

Recommended: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your average last frost date. Garlic chives can be slow to germinate, and this gives them a strong head start.

When to Plant (Outdoors):

Direct sow in spring after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 60 degrees F.

Where to Plant:

Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours) is best for the most vigorous growth and flavor. However, it will easily tolerate partial shade, especially in hot afternoon climates.

Soil: Plant in rich, fertile, well-drained soil. Garlic chives are adaptable but will not thrive in heavy, waterlogged clay. Amend your soil with aged compost before planting.

Soil pH: Prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

How to Plant (Seed Starting):

Depth: Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays or pots.

Germination: Be patient. Germination is notoriously slow and can take 14-21 days. Keep the soil consistently moist (but not soaking) and warm (60-70 degrees F).

Light: As soon as seedlings sprout, place them under strong grow lights or in a sunny window.

How to Plant (Transplanting):

Harden Off: For indoor-sown seedlings, acclimate them to outdoor conditions for 7-10 days before planting in the garden.

Spacing: Plant seedlings in small clumps (3-5 seedlings per hole) or as single plants spaced 4-6 inches apart. They will grow and fill in to form a dense clump.

Growing and Care:

Watering: Water regularly and deeply during the first growing season to help the plants establish. Once established (after the first year), garlic chives are quite drought-tolerant, but consistent watering will produce more tender, flavorful leaves.

Fertilizing: Feed the clump in early spring with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer or a fresh top-dressing of compost.

Dividing: After 3-4 years, the clump may become overcrowded. Dig up the entire clump in early spring, divide it into 3-4 smaller sections with a sharp spade, and replant them.

Controlling Spread: This is important. To prevent garlic chives from taking over your garden, cut off the flower heads in the fall after they bloom but before they dry out and drop seeds.

Harvesting:

When: You can begin harvesting lightly once the plants are 6-8 inches tall.

How: Use scissors to snip the flat leaves about 1-2 inches above the soil level. Do not pull them out by the root.

Frequency: Harvest frequently to encourage the plant to produce new, tender growth. The flowers and unopened buds are also edible and have a wonderful, pungent flavor.