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.

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.

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 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.