Chives illustration 🌱

🌱 Growing Chives in Zone 11b

Zone 11b has a year-round growing season. Chives can be planted almost any time with proper planning. Last frost: Jan 15. First frost: Dec 31.

Planting Calendar

Indoor
Outdoor
Harvest
Nov 20Dec 31

Season: Jan 15 – Dec 31 (350 days)

Zone11b
Last FrostJan 15
First FrostDec 31
Season Length350 days
Days to Harvest60
SunFull Sun
Frost ToleranceHeavy
Spacing16/sqft (3" apart)

When to Plant Chives in Zone 11b

Start Seeds Indoors: Nov 20

Start Chives seeds indoors around Nov 20 (8 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 65°F. Germinates in 7–14 days.

Transplant Outdoors: Jan 1

Transplant Chives seedlings outdoors after Jan 1. Wait until soil temperature reaches 45°F. Space plants at 16/sqft (3" apart). Harden off plants for a week before moving outside.

Harvest: Mar 2

First harvest approximately Mar 2 (~60 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Dec 31). Chives can overwinter in mild climates for continued harvest.

Companion Planting

✅ Carrots✅ Tomatoes✅ Grapes✅ Roses
❌ Beans❌ Peas

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Chives in Zone 11b?

Start Chives seeds indoors around Nov 20. Transplant outdoors after Jan 1. Expect first harvest around Mar 2.

What is the last frost date for Zone 11b?

The average last spring frost date for Zone 11b is Jan 15. The first fall frost averages Dec 31, giving a 350-day growing season.

Can I grow Chives in Zone 11b?

Yes. Chives needs 60 days to harvest. Zone 11b has a 350-day growing season, which is sufficient.

What is the best month to plant Chives in Zone 11b?

The best time to start Chives in Zone 11b is Nov. Begin seeds indoors around Nov 20, then transplant outdoors after the last frost date of Jan 15.

What companion plants grow well with Chives?

Good companion plants for Chives include Carrots, Tomatoes, Grapes, Roses. Avoid planting Chives near Beans, Peas.

How long does Chives take to harvest?

Chives takes approximately 60 days from planting to harvest. In Zone 11b, expect your first harvest around Mar 2.

Plan Your Chives Garden

Track Chives from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.

Start Free Chives Growing Guide