Onion

Category: root-veggies

Growing

  • 📍 Zone: 3-9
  • 🌞 Sun: Full sun
  • 💧 Water: Moderate; keep soil evenly moist, especially during bulbing phase
  • 🌱 Soil: Loose, well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH

Planting

  • 📏 Spacing: 4-6 inches apart, rows 12-18 inches apart
  • 📅 When To Plant: Early spring from sets or seeds; in warmer zones, can be fall-planted
  • 🌱 Propagation: Seeds, sets (small bulbs), or transplants
  • ⬇️ Depth: Plant sets 1 inch deep; seeds 1/4 inch deep
  • 🤝 Companion:
    • 0: Carrots
    • 1: Beets
    • 2: Lettuce
    • 3: Strawberries
    • 4: Tomatoes
  • 🚫 Avoid Planting Near:
    • 0: Beans
    • 1: Peas
    • 2: Asparagus

Care & Maintenance

  • ✂️ Pruning: Not typically required; remove flower stalks if they form to encourage bulb development
  • General: Keep weed-free as onions have shallow roots; mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds

Harvesting & Usage

  • ⏰ When To Harvest: When tops begin to yellow and fall over
  • ✋ How To Harvest: Loosen soil and gently lift bulbs; cure in a dry, airy spot for 2-3 weeks before storing
  • 🥫 Preservation: Store cured bulbs in a cool, dry place; can also be chopped and frozen

Ecological Info

  • 🐝 Pollinators: If left to flower, will attract bees and other beneficial insects
  • 🦌 Wildlife Resistance: Scent deters many pests
  • 🌿 Nitrogen Fixer: No