Grow chives in rich, well-draining soil in full sun or partial shade 4 to 6 weeks before the average date of the last frost in early spring. To harvest chives, cut the stalks at the base once the plant is at least 4 inches tall, or around 75-90 days after sowing. Continue this, cut and come again; harvest as needed up to 3 weeks before the first frost date. This will allow the chives to flower, expand their roots, and prepare for winter. If you would like to harvest chive seeds, wait until the flowers turn into dry brownish tufts, cut the heads into a paper sack, and shake the seeds free, using your fingers to separate the seeds from the debris.