PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS

Purple onions, also known as red onions, are prized for their vibrant color and sweet, mild flavor. They are a versatile addition to many dishes, from salads to sandwiches, and are relatively easy to grow. With proper care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of homegrown purple onions. This guide will walk you through the steps to successfully cultivate purple onions.

• Best Time to Plant:

  Purple onions are cool-season crops that can be planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. In most regions, start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date, and transplant seedlings outdoors when the soil temperature reaches at least 50°F (10°C). For direct sowing, plant seeds in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked in spring.

• Soil Type:

  Onions thrive in well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH for onions is between 6.0 and 7.0. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and improve soil structure. Onions prefer a soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged.

• Spacing:

  Proper spacing is crucial for bulb development. Plant onion sets or seedlings 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) apart in rows that are 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart. This allows each plant enough space to develop large, flavorful bulbs.

CARE TIPS

• Watering:

  Consistent moisture is essential for growing healthy onions. Water the plants regularly, ensuring the soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged. Aim for about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week. Mulching around the plants helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the roots cool.

• Fertilizing:

  Onions are relatively heavy feeders and benefit from additional nutrients. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, at planting time and then every 3-4 weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, side-dress with compost or organic fertilizers to provide a steady nutrient supply.

• Pruning:

  Pruning is not typically necessary for onions, but you should remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease. This also helps the plant direct more energy towards bulb development.

HARVESTING

• When to Harvest:

  Purple onions are usually ready to harvest 90-120 days after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Harvest onions when the tops begin to yellow and fall over. This indicates that the bulbs have stopped growing and are ready for harvest.

• How to Harvest:

  Gently loosen the soil around the bulbs with a garden fork or trowel and lift the onions from the ground. Handle the onions carefully to avoid bruising or damaging the bulbs. After harvesting, cure the onions in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area for about 2-3 weeks. This helps to harden the skins and improve storage life.

TROUBLESHOOTING

• Common Issues:

  •Onion Maggots: Small white maggots that tunnel into the bulbs, causing rot.

  •Downy Mildew: A fungal disease causing yellow patches on leaves, which eventually turn brown and die.

  •Thrips: Tiny insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing silver streaks and reducing bulb size.

• Solutions:

  •Onion Maggots: Use row covers to protect plants from adult flies laying eggs. Rotate crops and avoid planting onions in the same spot for consecutive years.

  •Downy Mildew: Ensure proper spacing for good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Apply fungicides if necessary and remove affected plant debris.

  •Thrips: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control thrip populations. Encourage beneficial insects, such as predatory mites, which prey on thrips.