Small onions, also known as pearl onions or pickling onions, are a delicious addition to any dish. They are often used in salads, stews, and as a side dish. Growing small onions at home is a rewarding and relatively simple process. In this article, we will discuss the planting method for small onions.
To start, you will need to choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil. Small onions thrive in soil that is rich in organic matter, so it is a good idea to amend your soil with compost before planting. Small onions also prefer slightly acidic soil, with a pH of around 6.0 to 6.8.
Small onions can be grown from sets, which are small, immature bulbs that are sold specifically for planting. Sets are widely available at garden centers and online. To plant small onions, simply push the sets into the soil about 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart. Make sure the pointy end is facing up.
Water the sets immediately after planting and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Small onions are shallow-rooted, so they require regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
Small onions do not require much fertilizer, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied once or twice during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of bulb development.
Small onions are ready to harvest when the tops start to yellow and fall over. Carefully dig up the bulbs, being careful not to damage them. Allow the small onions to cure in a warm, dry location for a few days before storing them in a cool, dry place for later use.
In conclusion, planting small onions is a simple and rewarding process that can yield a flavorful and versatile crop. With the right growing conditions and proper care, you can enjoy fresh small onions from your own garden throughout the season. So why not give it a try and add this tasty vegetable to your garden this year?