How to divide chives
2024-10-10T10:13:47+11:00
Autumn is a good time to split up any crowded clumps or containers of chives. Spread the divisions around the garden to increase your stock or share with friends.
Follow these steps to divide chives:
1. DIG UP the clump or tip the plant out of the pot. Sit it on the ground or a bench, decide on how many divisions you wish to make, then use a sharp knife to cut through and separate the roots. Make the new divisions 10–12 bulbs, or more. You can be a little bit rough with the roots, as chives are pretty tough plants and they will recover quickly.
2. TRIM OFF about half of the roots from your clump, to tidy up any damaged ones.
3. CUT leaves back by about two-thirds. Pruning at this stage helps to reduce moisture loss and transplant shock.
4. PLANT your divisions into soil with compost added, or a container filled with fresh, good-quality potting mix. Water in well, then keep plants just moist; don’t overwater. Chives thrive in full sun but they do pretty well in light shade, too.
