Pollinator is probably not the first thing you think of when you hear “Chives”. Yet, as pointed out by the horticulturalists at the University of Minnesota, pollinators really benefit from variety and Chives produce a unique flower that is an appreciated addition to the pollinator garden.

Whether in full sun or partial shade, they are also quite suitable for edgings, rock gardens, or even planter gardens for those who have limited space or lack an in-ground yard space. The diversity of spaces in which they thrive is another element that makes them a valuable pollination plant.

Chives are a hardy bulbous perennial from the Balkans and relatively temperate parts of Siberia that blooms early in the season, usually as soon as the weather consistently warms up. Once established, they can provide a spread of approximately a foot and a half and send up a host of globe-shaped flowers above the scapes that help feed the first emergent bees, butterflies, moths, and the often overlooked pollinating flies.

Chives can be split fairly frequently (every 1-2 years), and for scape lovers who would face the dilemma of taking the scapes versus leaving the flowers to bloom for pollinators, in a few short years you can have plenty to go around for everyone.

Care: Give chives a well drained soil in a full sun to partially shaded site. If growing them in a planter, be sure to provide sufficient drainage holes. Bulbs that sit in water for too long can develop molds and rot away.

Chives absolutely love rich soil with a neutral pH(6 to 7), but they are very adaptable as well as drainage is proper, so don’t be afraid to ask them to be flexible to your available conditions as needed. Pick chives from the plants as desired throughout the season, but watch for the emergence of the scapes during the spring, as that is where the blooms will propagate before long.

Once established, Chives can be split often, if desired, and potting a small clump and growing it in a sun-facing window over the winter is not uncommon (and has made for a great topping to fire-baked potatoes here).

Bonus Tip: Chives are an excellent companion underneath and around fruit trees such as apples, while providing a far friendlier option for pollinators than a lawn.