Onion

Growing

If you are planting from sets rather than seed, your crop may be more resistant to the onion fly. This pest is attracted to the scent of damaged plant tissue, so avoid thinning your seedlings too aggressively, as the wounds can invite larvae to tunnel into the bulbs. If foliage wilts or turns yellow, especially in wet weather, check for signs of rot or infestation and remove the affected plants immediately to prevent the spread of disease.

Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Harvest the bulbs once the tops begin to fall over. After pulling them from the ground, let the onions dry thoroughly before storing. For long-term storage, keep the unwashed bulbs in a cool, dark cellar. Varieties like the I'itoi onion can be left in the ground during the cooler months to multiply into larger clumps for future seasons.