Staro

Chive

Zone 5a Save Garden

🌱 60d to harvest Clumping

Feather-fine, rosy-tinted green chive blades of ‘Staro’ rise with a fresh, onion-chive fragrance that feels bright and lively the…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 13th
Last Frost	May 8th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 8th
Harvest Begins	Jul 7th
Harvest Ends	Sep 30th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	60
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Clumping
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	7

Recommended Companions

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease problem commonly affects Allium schoenoprasum (common chives), and how can I manage it?

Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are prone to onion thrips, which cause silvery streaks and distorted, stunted shoots. Rinse plants with a strong jet of water and remove heavily damaged leaves, then apply insecticidal soap to the undersides every 5–7 days until new growth looks normal. If you see leaf yellowing and soft rot at the base, improve drainage and avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal buildup.

How often should I water common chives during the main growing phase?

During active growth, keep the top 1–2 in (2–5 cm) of soil evenly moist, not waterlogged; a good target is watering when the surface starts to dry but before the clump wilts. In full sun, this often means about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week total from rain and irrigation, split into 2–3 deeper sessions for sandy soils. Consistent moisture supports tender leaves, while soggy soil increases rot risk.

How can I tell when Allium schoenoprasum is ready to harvest?

Harvest when plants form dense clumps and the hollow, tubular leaves are at least 6–8 in (15–20 cm) tall, which is typically around 60 days from sowing under good conditions. Snip leaves 1–2 in above the soil or cut individual outer leaves first, and regrow by leaving the inner shoots intact. For best flavor and tenderness, harvest before flowering; once flower buds appear, leaves become tougher.

Feather-fine, rosy-tinted green chive blades of ‘Staro’ rise with a fresh, onion-chive fragrance that feels bright and lively the moment you brush past the clumps. At maturity (about 60 days), the foliage stays tender and crisp, with a delicate bite that holds its character in the garden and on the plate. Grow ‘Staro’ for its dependable, flavorful sprigs—ideal for sprinkling over finished dishes, stirring into creamy sauces, and adding a gentle, aromatic lift to savory favorites.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

Start chive indoors early or sow outdoors after frost, and cut back often to keep plants productive and tender.