Scientific Name: Allium cepa
Order: Asparagales
Family: Amaryllidaceae
Genus: Allium
Plant Type: Vegetable
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Soil pH Level: 6.0-7.0
Soil Texture: Loamy
Sun Exposure: Full
Appearance Description: Onions have a golden brown paper skin. The inside of an onion is composed of layers and there is sometimes a flower stalk in the center.
How to Plant:
1. Work the soil until it has a smooth and broken-up consistency.
2. Amend native soil with compost, manure, or any other material.
3. Till 8-inches deep and remove any debris.
4. Space each plant 2-6 inches apart and each row 1-foot apart.
5. Water generously after planting.
How to Maintain:
1. Onions do not require consistent watering.
2. Mulch in order to retain moisture.
3. Fertilize every few weeks with a specially formulated fertilizer.
How to Harvest:
1. Onions are ready for harvest when the tops begin to yellow and fall over.
2. Loosen the soil and bend down the tops to encourage ripening.
3. To remove, simply pull the onions.
4. Late summer harvests are best because onions do not like cold weather.
Storage Tips:
Onions should be dried for a few weeks before stored. Store at 40-50 degrees and do not place near apples or potatoes.
Top Varieties:
1. Yellow Sweet Spanish
2. Stuttgarter
Fun Facts:
1. Onions are thought to make people "cry" when cut.
2. Onions have a strong smell; to remove it wash hands with cold water, salt, and vinegar.
3. Onions were eaten at the first thanksgiving dinner.
4. Onions were once considered the symbol of eternity.
Related Soil:
Schultz Moisture Plus Potting Mix
Related Plant Food:
Schultz All Purpose Water Soluble
Schultz Flower & Vegetable Extended Feed
Schultz All Purpose Extended Feed
Schultz Granular Tomato & Vegetable Plant Food
Schultz Granular All Purpose Plant Food
