Crop Rotation Group
Allium (Onion family)
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Soil
Fertile, well drained soil with compost dug in. In clay soil, grow in raised beds or rows.
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Position
Sun or partial shade.
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Frost tolerant
Yes.
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Feeding
Not normally required, though overwintered sets can be given a liquid feed in spring.
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Companions
-
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Spacing
Single Plants: 15cm (5") each way (minimum)
Rows: 10cm (3") with 20cm (7") row gap (minimum)
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Sow and Plant
Easiest to sow onion sets (tiny bulbs) which are planted direct into the soil from autumn/fall onwards. Can also be grown from seed in which case start in pots under cover in late winter before planting out mid-late spring.
Our Garden Planning Tool can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
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Notes
Japanese variety onion sets can be used to give an early harvest. Onion sets are also the better choice for heavier or wetter soils.
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Harvesting
Harvest as soon as they reach a reasonable size. If storing them, wait until the tops start to die down and dry for about 10 days.
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Troubleshooting
Weed early and often to keep onions growing strong. Seedlings are less likely to bolt (produce flowers) compared to bulb onions grown from sets.
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