Planting onions at the right metre is crucial for their successful growth and development . In general , Allium cepa should be plant in former spring , once the ground is workable . This typically occur when the dirt temperature reaches around 50 ° degree Fahrenheit ( 10 ° snow ) or higher . Planting onions too ahead of time , when the soil is still too inhuman and wet , can lead to poor growth and even decompose of the bulbs .
In terms of position , Allium cepa can be grown in both in - ground garden and lift beds . Whichever choice you choose , it ’s important to insure that the soil is well - drain and fecund . Allium cepa favor a pH reach of 6.0 to 6.8 , so it ’s a good thought to test the soil and make any necessary amendments before engraft .
When it comes to space , onions should be imbed about 6 inches asunder in rows that are 12 inches asunder . This allows enough room for the incandescent lamp to develop without crowd each other . right spacing also helps to advance good air circulation , which can deoxidize the endangerment of disease .
Onions prosper in sunny spot , so prefer a location in your garden that receives full sun for at least 6 - 8 hour a day . If you have special space , view planting onions in containers or stack , as long as they have enough drain .
Before planting , it ’s a good theme to prepare the soil by loosen it with a garden branching or cultivator . hit any weeds or debris and incorporate organic topic , such as compost or well - molder manure , to improve soil fertility .
To constitute onions , dig a little hole or trench that is about 1 - 2 inches rich . Place the onion solidifying or transplantation into the hole , verify the root end is facing down . mildly deal the bulbs with dirt , leaving the tops give away . Water the fresh planted onions thoroughly to square off the soil around the bulbs .
Once planted , onion plant require reproducible watering throughout their growing season . Keep the dirt evenly moist but not saturate , as overwatering can lead to rotting . Mulching around the plants can aid retain moisture and suppress dope growth .
Onions are comparatively humiliated - maintenance plant , but they do benefit from regular fecundation . A balanced fertilizer , such as a 10 - 10 - 10 or 14 - 14 - 14 blend , can be applied every 4 - 6 workweek during the develop season . Be sure to survey the package program line for diligence rate .
As the onions grow , you may need to thin them out to keep the recommended spatial arrangement . cutting involves removing excess plant to give up the remaining ones more room to grow . The thinned seedlings can be used in cooking or replanted elsewhere if desired .
Harvesting time for onions vary depending on the variety and desired use . For green onions or scallions , you’re able to start harvesting when the tops reach about 6 - 8 inches in tallness . For mature incandescent lamp , expect until the tops have dried and fallen over . Carefully comprehend up the bulbs , set aside them to dry out in a well - ventilated domain for a distich of week , and then store them in a coolheaded , wry place .
Planting onions in early spring , in a sunny location with fertile , well - drained soil , can result in a bountiful harvest home . By following these guideline and providing the necessary care , you may enjoy homegrown onions that are full of relish and freshness .
Caroline Bates
