GARDENING AUSTRALIA MAY 2019 77
IN THE PATCH
STEP-BY-STEP HOW TODIVIDE CHIVES
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.
PHIL DUDMAN describes how it’s done.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.PHOTOSYou can be a little bit rough with the
GAP PHOTOS/FRIEDRICH STRAUSS
3
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.1
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