Chives thrive in a sunny position with well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for borders or containers. For potted plants, use a container with good drainage holes and fill it with a free-draining compost mix, such as a blend of multipurpose compost and grit, or loam based compost such as John Innes.

When planting, ensure the root ball sits at the same level as it did in its nursery pot, and water well after planting. Place the container in a sunny spot and water regularly during dry spells, allowing the top layer of compost to dry out between waterings.

Keep well-watered and snip off flowers to keep plants producing new leaves. In late summer after flowering cut all leaves down to about 5cm (2in) above ground level to encourage a new flush of young growth.