Planting Chive Bulbs in Garden Beds and Containers

Overview

Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are onion‑family perennials forming clumps of hollow leaves with purple, pink, or white pom‑pom flowers. Two types: onion‑flavored and garlic‑flavored. Easy to plant, they deter aphids from roses and thrive almost anywhere.

Step 1: Site Selection

6 hrs sun for best growth (tolerates less). Well‑drained soil. Companion plant with herbs, veggies, or flowers.

Step 2: Soil Prep

Turn soil, add compost. Optional bone meal. Target pH 6.0–7.0 (test if unsure).

Step 3: Plant Bulbs

Tiny white bulbs, leaves from pointed end. Hole depth = bulb height. If leafless, point up. Plant 5–6 bulbs per hole, cover, firm, water. Next cluster 4 in. away.

Step 4: Minimal Maintenance

Weed as needed. Water in dry spells (potted: every other day). Divide clumps every 2–3 years (March or Oct). Replant or share.

Bonus

Plant near roses to repel aphids naturally.