Chives
Allium schoenoprasum
Also known asGarden chives · Common chives · Ciboulette · Cebollino
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 3–9 (winter low around -40°C)
- Frost
- very hardy (survives deep cold)
- Season
- cool (spring/fall)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rockwool (Mineral wool) | alkaline until pre-soaked | very high | low |
| Expanded clay pebbles (LECA) | neutral / inert | low | high |
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
| Net pot, no medium (Bare-root) | - | - | - |
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0.8 |
| vegetative | 3 | 1 | 2 | 1.5 |
Aquaponics suitability
Compatible
Fish waste provides enough nitrogen for healthy growth. Supplemental potassium, calcium, and iron may still be needed depending on fish stocking density.
Care notes
An easy, long-lived hydroponic herb. EC 1.0-1.8 mS/cm. pH 6.0-7.0. Temperature: 12–25°C (cool to moderate; tolerates heat better than most alliums but grows best in cool conditions). Moderate light (DLI 12-18 mol/m2/day). Grows well in NFT, DWC, Kratky, and media bed systems. Propagation by division of existing clumps or from seed (seed germination takes 2-3 weeks). From seed to first harvest: 8-10 weeks. From division, harvestable immediately. Harvest by cutting leaves 3–5 cm above the base; the plant regrows continuously. A clump of chives can be harvested every 2-3 weeks indefinitely, making it one of the most persistent hydroponic herbs. The clumps expand over time and can be divided every 6-12 months to start new plants. The purple flowers are edible and visually attractive; let some plants flower for culinary use (chive blossom vinegar is a classic preparation). Pest and disease issues are minimal. For hydroponic herb gardens, chives are a foundational crop: easy, productive, attractive, and useful in virtually every cuisine.