Onions

Beginner's Guide to Growing Onions

Onions are a staple ingredient in kitchens around the world, enhancing meals with their distinctive flavors. From sweet and mild to pungent and bold, there’s an Onion variety for every dish. Whether roasted, caramelized, pickled, or raw, Onions add depth and complexity to countless recipes.

Unlike their ornamental Allium relatives, which are prized for their spring and summer blooms, edible Onions are valued for their culinary versatility and nutritional benefits. They’re also easy to grow, making them perfect for beginner gardeners.

Types of Onions

There are five main types of edible Onions, each with unique characteristics:

• Yellow Onions: The most common type, featuring yellow papery skins and a sweet, mild flavor.
• Red/Purple Onions: Known for their vibrant color and sharp yet slightly sweet taste. Ideal for salads and grilling.
• Sweet Onions: Low in sulfur, offering a naturally sweet flavor. Often used fresh in sandwiches and salads.
• White Onions: Crisp and zesty with a full-bodied flavor. Excellent for Mexican cuisine and salsas.
• Shallots: A cross between Garlic and Onions, offering a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Perfect for dressings and gourmet recipes.

Related Varieties

• Leeks: Mild, onion-like flavor that holds up well in soups and stews.
• Green Onions/Scallions: Harvested young, these Onions are tender and versatile, with both the green tops and white bases being edible.

Choosing the Right Onion for Your Garden

Selecting the right Onion variety depends on your growing zone:

• Long-Day Onions: Thrive in northern regions with 14-15 hours of daylight.
• Short-Day Onions: Best for southern regions with 10 hours of daylight.
• Day-Neutral Onions: Adaptable to various climates and daylight conditions, making them suitable for USDA zones 5-6.

If you are USDA zone 6 and lower, choose Long day or Day-Neutral Onions, but if you are in USDA growing zones 7 and up, choose Short day or Day-Neutral Onions.

Caring For and Harvesting Onions

Onions are relatively low-maintenance but require some care for optimal results:

• Sunlight: Provide full sun exposure for strong, healthy plants.
• Mulching: Apply a 3-4 inch layer of mulch to retain moisture and enrich the soil.
• Pest Management: Monitor for pests like onion maggots and treat them with natural remedies or insecticides if necessary.

Harvest Onions when the tops begin to yellow and fall over. Gently lift the bulbs from the soil, allowing them to dry on the surface for a few days. Cure the bulbs in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area before storing them.

Onions thrive in full sun and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. They’re typically planted as sets (small bulbs) or transplants.

Planting Tips

• Cooler Climates: Plant Onion sets in early spring as soon as the soil is workable.
• Warmer Climates: Plant in the fall or early spring for a summer harvest.

Space Onion sets 2-4 inches apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. Cover with 1 inch of soil and water thoroughly after planting. If your soil is heavy or poorly drained, consider using raised beds or containers.

Watering and Fertilizing

Onions have shallow roots and need consistent moisture to grow well. Water regularly but avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to rot. Use mulch or compost to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize with a balanced formula to encourage healthy growth.

Storing and Using Onions

Properly cured Onions can last for several months in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated space. For added creativity, try braiding the tops for unique kitchen décor or gifting.

What are the health benefits of Onions?

Onions are more than just a kitchen essential—they’re a powerhouse of nutrients and health benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants, including flavonoids.
• Contains compounds with potential anticancer and antibacterial properties.
• May support heart health and bone density.
• Helps regulate blood sugar and improve digestive health.
• High in vitamins C and B, folate, and potassium.

• What is the easiest Onion variety to grow?
  Yellow Onions are beginner-friendly and versatile in the kitchen.

• When should I plant Onion sets?
  Plant in early spring for a summer harvest or in fall for mild winter climates.

Can I grow Onions in containers?
Yes! Onions grow well in deep containers with proper drainage and sunlight.

How do I store harvested Onions?
Store cured Onions in a cool, dry, and ventilated area for long-term use.

What’s the difference between Long-Day and Short-Day Onions?
Long-Day Onions require more daylight to form bulbs and are best for northern climates, while Short-Day Onions thrive in the south.

How can I mellow the flavor of raw Onions?
Soak sliced Onions in cold water for 30 minutes to reduce their sharpness.

Are Onion greens edible?
Yes, Onion greens (like Scallions) are perfect for salads, soups, and garnishes.

What nutrients are in Onions?
Onions are high in vitamin C, B vitamins, potassium, and antioxidants.

Do Onions repel pests in the garden?
Yes, Onions can deter pests like aphids and rabbits when interplanted with other crops.

How do I know when Onions are ready to harvest?
Onions are ready when the tops turn yellow and begin to fall over.

Why Order Your Onions From NatureHills.com?

Family-owned and operated since 2001, Nature Hills Nursery prides itself on meeting the needs of customers with an ever-growing collection of online plants backed by our product guarantee and protected by Plant Sentry™.

All of our dormant Edible Bulbs are delivered safely to your home with instructions for planting, care and storage, so you can order knowing you'll have exactly what you need! Plus plenty more information in our #ProPlantTips Garden Blog for extra support and inspiration!