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Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Chives: when and how to prune
Allium schoenoprasum
Chives is best pruned in March and July.
| Pruning months | March and July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–July |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Chives: when to prune it?
In March, remove the old dead leaves; in July, after flowering, cut the whole clump back.
Chives: how to prune it?
- In March, cut away last year’s withered leaves so the young growth can come through freely.
- After flowering, in July, cut the whole clump back to 3–5 cm. Within a few weeks you will have fresh, tender leaves again.
- In a nature garden, leave a few flower stems until the seed is ripe: that gives you seedlings.
- If you do not want seedlings, cut off the spent heads before they turn brown.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and July. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: Never cut lower than 3 cm above the ground: you would damage the bulbs and the clump would regrow slowly.
Nearby: related pruning guides
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.