Can chives thrive in container gardens?

Container gardening makes chive growing accessible for everyone, regardless of limitations in space--but you can also grow chives in a pot if you set it up well and care for it. I've successfully grown chives in apartment balconies, rooftops, and windowsills. The secret lies in pairing the container specifications to match the needs of the plant. Drainage and soil structure determine your success.

Be sure to learn the watering balance for your container chives. Hot weather means daily checks on soil moisture. Stick your finger down to the first knuckle. Water deeply when it is dry at that level. Avoid wet foliage to reduce disease potential. I have success with deep watering every 2-3 days in summer. Reduce in cooler weather.

Give enough nutrition with proper feeding. Liquid fertilizer at a balanced formula is diluted to quarter-strength monthly. Apply during times of active growth. Overfeeding will make weak, flavorless growth. I just put slow-release organic granules in the dirt at planting time. This gives steady nutrition with no frequent applications.

Through intermittent division, containers can manage their space. During early spring, crowded plants are divided every 2-3 years. I gently remove the plant from its pot and break the root balls into sections. I replant the divisions into a fresh soil mix. This prevents roots from binding and allows the plants to continue growing. My divisions are rapidly established, and within weeks, they produce!

Container chives make growing chives so enjoyable all year round, with a few simple modifications. You can take pots inside before the first frost in colder climates, and also provide supplemental light during the winter months. Rotate containers weekly to ensure they grow evenly. I've always enjoyed fresh chives in the winter with this method. Container gardening means anyone can enjoy chives.

Read the full article: How to Grow Chives Successfully