Garlic Chives Growing Guide

Garlic Chives (Allium tuberosum), also known as Chinese chives, are a hardy perennial herb known for their mild garlic flavor and flat, grass-like leaves. They are a versatile addition to the garden, perfect for seasoning dishes, adding to salads, or as an ornamental plant with its beautiful white flowers. Growing garlic chives is easy, and they can provide a continuous harvest throughout the growing season.

    

Planting Garlic Chives

Sunlight: Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Garlic chives prefer at least 6 hours of sunlight daily but can tolerate some shade.

Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and drainage.

When to Plant: Garlic chives can be planted in early spring or fall. They are best started from divisions or transplants, but seeds can also be sown directly in the garden or started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date.

Starting Indoors: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of 65-70°F (18-21°C). Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are about 4-6 inches tall and the danger of frost has passed.

Direct Sowing: Sow seeds directly in the garden 1/4 inch deep and 6-8 inches apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 6-8 inches apart once they are a few inches tall.

Planting Divisions: If starting from divisions, space the clumps 6-12 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart. Plant the divisions at the same depth they were growing before, and water them well after planting.

Caring for Garlic Chives

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Garlic chives are drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering will encourage lush growth. Mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilization: Garlic chives benefit from moderate feeding. Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting time. Side-dress with compost or a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support continuous growth.

Mulching and Weeding: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil temperature consistent. Hand-pull weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the shallow roots of the garlic chives.

Pest and Disease Management: Garlic chives are relatively pest-resistant, but they can occasionally suffer from fungal diseases like downy mildew. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues, and water at the base of the plants to keep the foliage dry.

Harvesting Garlic Chives

When to Harvest: Garlic chives can be harvested as soon as the plants are well-established, typically within 60-90 days after planting. The best time to harvest is in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day.

How to Harvest: Use scissors or pruning shears to cut the leaves about 2 inches above the soil level. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and keeps the plants healthy. Avoid harvesting more than one-third of the plant at a time to ensure continued healthy growth.

Storing and Using Garlic Chives

Storing Fresh Garlic Chives: Freshly harvested garlic chives can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Place the leaves in a plastic bag or wrap them in a damp paper towel to retain moisture. For longer storage, garlic chives can be dried or frozen.

Culinary Uses: Garlic chives are versatile and can be used fresh in salads, soups, stir-fries, and as a garnish. They add a mild garlic flavor to dishes and are commonly used in Asian cuisine. The flowers are also edible and can be used as a decorative garnish.

Garlic Chives Growing Tips

Companion Planting: Garlic chives are excellent companions for roses, as they help repel aphids. They also grow well alongside carrots, tomatoes, and other herbs. Avoid planting near beans and peas, as they can inhibit growth.

Overwintering: Garlic chives are hardy perennials that can survive winter in most climates. In colder regions, apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plants to protect them from freezing temperatures.

Propagation: Garlic chives can be easily propagated by division. Divide clumps every 3-4 years in spring or fall to maintain plant health and vigor.

Flowering: If you want to encourage leaf production, remove the flower stalks as they appear. However, allowing the plant to flower can attract beneficial insects and add ornamental value to your garden.

Growing garlic chives in your garden ensures a continuous supply of fresh, flavorful leaves throughout the growing season. Enjoy the mild garlic taste and numerous culinary uses of this versatile and easy-to-grow herb!