Can I Divide Chives Sooner Than In 2 Or 3 Years?

Question

About this time last year, we bought onion chive plants. I am not entirely sure how old they were when we bought them, but they seemed young from the little I know. They are healthy and springing back quickly after the winter and we have more than we can handle, so I want to give some plants away. I know it is good to divide them every 2 to 3 years, but is it safe for the chives if I do it sooner? Thanks!

Answer 1

Yes, it is fine to do so at any time. The two year mark is when the clump starts to get very unmanageable without division.

Here are a couple of articles that will help you with the care and division of chives:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/hgen/dividing-perennial-herbs.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/chives/when-to-harvest-chives.htm