What To Know
- A medium-sized, round onion with a mild, sweet flavor.
- A large, flattish onion with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- Gently lift the onions from the ground and allow them to cure in a warm, dry place for 2-3 weeks.
Yellow onions, a staple in kitchens worldwide, are prized for their sweet and pungent flavor. Growing your own yellow onions is a rewarding experience, providing you with fresh, homegrown produce. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from selecting the right variety to harvesting and storing your onions.
Choosing the Right Variety
There are several varieties of yellow onions, each with its unique characteristics. Some popular choices include:
- Granex: A large, globe-shaped onion with a strong, pungent flavor.
- Texas Grano 502: A medium-sized, round onion with a mild, sweet flavor.
- Walla Walla: A large, flattish onion with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
Soil Preparation
Yellow onions prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Before planting, amend the soil with plenty of organic matter, such as compost or manure, to improve fertility and drainage.
Planting Yellow Onions
From Seeds
1. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
2. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in a seed tray filled with moist potting mix.
3. Keep the seeds warm (70-75°F) and provide plenty of light.
4. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are 6-8 inches tall.
From Sets
1. Purchase onion sets, which are small, dormant onions.
2. Plant sets 1-2 inches deep, with the pointy end up.
3. Space sets 4-6 inches apart.
Watering and Fertilizing
Yellow onions need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Fertilize onions monthly with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10.
Pest and Disease Control
Yellow onions can be susceptible to various pests and diseases, including thrips, onion flies, and downy mildew. Use organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, to manage pests. Practice good garden hygiene by removing infected plants and rotating crops to prevent disease.
Mulching and Weeding
Mulching around onion plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use straw, hay, or compost as mulch. Keep the mulch away from the base of the plants to prevent rot.
Harvesting and Storing Yellow Onions
Yellow onions are ready to harvest when the tops start to turn brown and fall over. Gently lift the onions from the ground and allow them to cure in a warm, dry place for 2-3 weeks. Store cured onions in a cool, dry location with good ventilation.
Tips for Success
- Provide plenty of sunlight. Yellow onions need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Rotate crops. Do not plant onions in the same location more than once every 3-4 years.
- Avoid overwatering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems.
- Companion planting. Plant onions alongside carrots, lettuce, and tomatoes to improve growth and deter pests.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I grow yellow onions in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow yellow onions in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide.
Q: How long does it take to grow yellow onions?
A: Yellow onions take about 100-120 days to mature from seed.
Q: Why are my onion tops turning yellow?
A: Yellowing onion tops can be a sign of nitrogen deficiency. Fertilize your onions with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I store yellow onions for long-term use?
A: Store cured yellow onions in a cool, dry location with good ventilation. They can be stored for up to 6 months under ideal conditions.
Q: Can I use yellow onions for planting in the future?
A: No, do not use yellow onions from the grocery store for planting. They may have been treated with chemicals that inhibit sprouting.
