Cilantro/Coriander
Coriandrum sativum
Chives
Allium schoenoprasum
Cilantro vs Chives for Container Herb Gardens: Fresh Herb Comparison
Comparing cilantro and chives for container growing. Learn which is faster to harvest, easier to maintain, and better for small balcony herb gardens.
Quick Comparison
| Criteria | 🌱Cilantro/Coriander | 🧅Chives | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | moderate | easy | Chives |
| Days to Harvest | 45 days | 60 days | Cilantro/Coriander |
| Container Size | 6 inch pot | 6 inch pot | Tie |
| Sunlight | partial sun | full sun | - |
| Water Needs | moderate | moderate | - |
| Yield | Lower | Higher | Chives |
| Beginner-Friendly | Moderate | ⭐ Yes | Chives |
Key Differences
Growing Cycle
Annual. 4-6 week harvest window before bolting. Must succession plant every 2-3 weeks.
Perennial. Returns yearly for 5-10+ years. Plant once, harvest forever.
Speed to Harvest
3-4 weeks from seed. One of the fastest herbs. Quick germination (7-10 days).
60-90 days from seed initially. But once established, continuous harvest for years.
Heat Tolerance
Very heat-sensitive. Bolts immediately above 75°F. Strictly cool-season.
Good heat tolerance. Grows through summer. More adaptable to temperature swings.
Maintenance Effort
High maintenance. Constant replanting needed. Bolting management. Short lifespan.
Extremely low maintenance. Nearly indestructible. Occasional dividing every 3-4 years.
Flavor Character
Bright, citrusy, polarizing (some people taste soap). Best fresh. Loses flavor when dried.
Mild onion-garlic flavor. Universally liked. Best fresh. Good dried but milder.
Culinary Uses
Mexican, Asian, Indian cuisine. Salsas, curries, pho. Very specific flavor profile.
Universal garnish. Eggs, potatoes, cream cheese, soups. Works in many cuisines.
Best for Cilantro/Coriander
Choose Cilantro/Coriander if:
- You love Mexican and Asian cuisine
- You want ultra-fast harvests (3-4 weeks)
- You can succession plant regularly
- You prefer bright, citrusy flavors
- You make fresh salsa and guacamole
Best for Chives
Choose Chives if:
- You want a perennial herb (returns yearly)
- You prefer mild onion flavor
- You need extremely low-maintenance plants
- You want beautiful purple flowers
- You prefer consistent, reliable harvests
Can They Grow Together?
Yes, they can grow together!
Cilantro and chives can grow together in large containers. Both are cold-tolerant and prefer similar conditions. Chives are perennial and stay put while cilantro is replanted every few weeks. Plant cilantro around established chives for continuous herb harvests.
The Bottom Line
Cilantro/Coriander
Choose cilantro for ultra-fast harvests, bright citrusy flavor in Mexican and Asian cooking, and if you can commit to succession planting every few weeks.
Chives
Choose chives for a nearly indestructible perennial that returns yearly, requires minimal effort, and provides consistent onion-flavored harvests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is easier to grow: Cilantro/Coriander or Chives?
Chives is generally easier to grow in containers. It requires less maintenance and is more forgiving of mistakes.
Which grows faster: Cilantro/Coriander or Chives?
Cilantro/Coriander reaches harvest maturity faster, typically in 45 days compared to 60 days for Chives.
Can I grow Cilantro/Coriander and Chives together?
Yes! Cilantro and chives can grow together in large containers. Both are cold-tolerant and prefer similar conditions. Chives are perennial and stay put while cilantro is replanted every few weeks. Plant cilantro around established chives for continuous herb harvests.
Which needs less space: Cilantro/Coriander or Chives?
Both Cilantro/Coriander and Chives have similar space requirements and work well in small containers.
Which produces more: Cilantro/Coriander or Chives?
Chives typically produces more harvest per plant over the growing season, making it better for maximum yield in limited space.
Which is better for beginners: Cilantro/Coriander or Chives?
Chives is more beginner-friendly due to its forgiving nature and easier care requirements. It's a great first plant for new container gardeners.
What are the main differences between Cilantro/Coriander and Chives?
The key differences include: growing cycle, speed to harvest, heat tolerance. See the detailed comparison above for complete differences.
Should I choose Cilantro/Coriander or Chives for my balcony?
Choose cilantro for ultra-fast harvests, bright citrusy flavor in Mexican and Asian cooking, and if you can commit to succession planting every few weeks. Choose chives for a nearly indestructible perennial that returns yearly, requires minimal effort, and provides consistent onion-flavored harvests. Consider your space, sunlight, and what you want to grow when making your decision.
Related Plant Guides
Complete Cilantro/Coriander Growing Guide
Learn everything about growing Cilantro/Coriander in containers.
Complete Chives Growing Guide
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