Garlic chives (Allium tuberosum) combine flat green leaves, a mild garlic flavor and clusters of white flowers on established plants. This perennial herb works equally well in kitchen gardens, containers and informal borders.
Key Features
- Approximately 200 seeds
- Perennial culinary herb
- Flat leaves with mild garlic flavor
- White flowers on mature plants
What's in the Pack
One packet containing approximately 200 garlic chive seeds. Seeds only; live plants and harvested herbs are not included.
Planting Instructions
When to Sow
Start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost or direct sow in spring after severe cold has passed. Germination is naturally slower than many annual herbs.
Sowing and Germination
Sow about 1/4 inch deep and keep the medium evenly moist at approximately 65–75°F. Germination often takes 14–28 days.
Spacing and Care
Transplant or thin to 8–12 inches apart. Grow in full sun to partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Divide established clumps every few years if growth becomes crowded.
Growing Information
| Botanical name |
Allium tuberosum |
| Life cycle |
Perennial |
| Sun |
Full sun to partial shade |
| Typical germination |
14–28 days |
| Typical height |
About 12–20 inches |
| Growing zones |
Commonly hardy in USDA zones 3–9 |
Harvest and Use
Cut leaves a few inches above the soil after plants are established, allowing regrowth between harvests. Flowers and buds are also commonly used in cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are garlic chives the same as common chives?
No. Garlic chives have flatter leaves and a mild garlic flavor; common chives have hollow, tubular leaves.
Will they flower in the first year?
Some may, but stronger flowering is more common after plants mature.
Can they spread?
Established clumps can enlarge and may self-sow if flower heads are left to mature. Remove spent blooms if reseeding is not wanted.
Please note: Seed counts are approximate. No organic, heirloom or non-GMO certification is claimed.
