Chives (*Allium schoenoprasum*) are a garden staple. Their hollow, onion-scented leaves are a kitchen must-have, while their round purple flower globes are highly decorative and attract bees. But chives are also valuable companion plants.
Their strong scent confuses pests, and they contain natural sulfur compounds that help prevent fungal diseases like blackspot on roses. They are easy to grow, thriving in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil. Divide the clumps every few years in spring to keep them vigorous and productive.