Onions

Onion

Allium cepa, commonly known as onion, is a widely cultivated vegetable known for its pungent flavor and versatile culinary uses. It belongs to the genus Allium, which also includes other popular vegetables like garlic, shallots, and leeks.

Starting Onion Plants

Onions can be grown from seeds, sets, or transplants. To start onions from seeds, sow them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep in trays or pots filled with seed starting mix. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of 60-70°F (15-21°C) for optimal germination.

Planting Time

Onion sets or transplants should be planted outdoors as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring, usually 2-4 weeks before the last frost date. Plant the sets or transplants 1 inch deep and 4-6 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart.

Harvesting

Onions are ready to harvest when the tops have fallen over and begun to turn yellow or brown. This usually occurs 100-120 days after planting, depending on the variety. Carefully lift the onions from the soil using a garden fork, and allow them to cure in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks before storing.

Seed Harvesting

To harvest onion seeds, allow a few of the best plants to flower and produce seed heads. Once the seed heads have turned brown and dry, cut them off and place them in a paper bag. Shake the bag to release the seeds, then store them in a cool, dry place until ready to plant the following season.

Commonly Grown Varieties

Some popular onion varieties include:

• Yellow Onions: Known for their strong flavor and long storage life, these are commonly used in cooking.
• Red Onions: With a milder, sweeter flavor, these are often used in salads and sandwiches.
• White Onions: These have a crisp texture and mild flavor, making them ideal for raw and cooked dishes.
• Sweet Onions: Varieties like Vidalia and Walla Walla are known for their sweet, mild flavor and are often used in salads and sandwiches.

Culinary Uses

Onions are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world. They can be used in various ways, such as:

• Raw: Sliced or chopped onions add a crisp texture and sharp flavor to salads, sandwiches, and salsas.
• Sautéed or Caramelized: Cooking onions slowly over low heat brings out their natural sweetness and creates a rich, flavorful base for soups, stews, and sauces.
• Roasted: Whole roasted onions become soft and sweet, making a delicious side dish or addition to other roasted vegetables.
• Pickled: Pickled onions are a tangy condiment often served with sandwiches, burgers, and charcuterie boards.