How to Fertilize Chives
- 1). Amend the planting area with a 2- to 3-inch layer of well-rotted manure or compost before planting chives. This improves drainage, increases aeration and provides slow-release nutrients to the chives.
- 2). Fertilize chives in the spring when new growth appears by sprinkling 1/4 cup of 5-10-5 fertilizer around the base of the clump and working it into the top 2 inches of the soil. The University of Minnesota Extension explains that organic matter in the soil often provides adequate nutrients for chives, but that a light application of fertilizer in the spring may be needed on chives that were harvested heavily the previous year.
- 3). Use water-soluble fertilizer mixed to one-quarter to one-half strength on chives grown in containers. Apply every four to six weeks throughout the summer.
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