Nobody knows exactly where chives come from. Some assume its homeland is in China, others in the Mediterranean region. The fact is, however, that the undemanding plant now thrives primarily in the northern mountain regions and is therefore insensitive to low frost temperatures.
How do you overwinter chives in winter?
To overwinter chives successfully, cut the plant down in autumn and cover it with mulch or brushwood. Potted chives should be protected from frost and only watered on frost-free days. The plant sprouts again in spring.
Overwintering chives
The herb can easily tolerate temperatures down to minus 25 °C. To prepare the plant for the winter, you should cut it down completely in autumn and cover it with a thick layer of mulch or brushwood. No further care measures are necessary. The plant will sprout again in spring.
Overwintering chives in the pot
Potted chives can also easily overwinter outside, for example on the balcony. Cut it down in time before the first frost and cover the substrate with mulch. Chives kept indoors need a rest period even in winter, ideally in a bright but cool room.
Tips & Tricks
Chives are hardy and can therefore tolerate even the lowest temperatures. However, potted chives left in frozen soil can quickly die of thirst. Therefore, make sure to only water your balcony plants on frost-free days if possible.
