When to Plant Chives in Rio Arriba County, NM
Chives are a hardy perennial herb with a mild onion flavor and attractive purple pom-pom flowers. They are one of the easiest herbs to grow and maintain.
Rio Arriba County, New Mexico is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is June 13 and the first fall frost is September 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 96 days.
At an elevation of 5,979 feet, Rio Arriba County receives approximately 17.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Chives to ensure they mature before fall. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Chives will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Chives successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Rio Arriba County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.3-8.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 10/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Chives Planting Timeline — Rio Arriba County, NM
Chives Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | June 20 | Jun 20 – Jul 4 |
| Harvest | August 22 | Aug 22 – Oct 31 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | Transplant Outdoors |
| July | Transplant Outdoors |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–90 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 5b
Growing Season
96 days
Growing Tips for Rio Arriba County
Start from seed or divisions in spring. Cut back to 2 inches after flowering to encourage fresh growth. Both the leaves and flowers are edible and delicious.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Chives in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Chives in Rio Arriba County, NM?
Rio Arriba County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of June 13. Plan your Chives planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Rio Arriba County, NM?
Rio Arriba County, New Mexico is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is June 13 and first fall frost is September 17.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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