How to plant winter onions correctly: step-by-step instructions

Planting winter onions in the fall can be rewarding, but it requires careful preparation and adherence to the main steps. SSPDaily will tell you how to plant it correctly to get a bountiful harvest.

Soil preparation

Choose well-drained, fertile, and light soil in the area where you are going to plant onions. Before planting, loosen the soil thoroughly and remove all weeds and debris. This will create the perfect environment for your winter onions to grow.

Timing

It is recommended that you plant your onions about a month before the first frost in your area, which usually occurs in late summer or early fall, around August or September. This will allow the onions to take root before the colder months arrive.

Choosing the right bulbs

When buying, look for onions with a flat end at the top and roots growing from the bottom. Such bulbs are better suited for winter planting and are more likely to produce a healthy harvest.

The importance of fertilizers:

Nitrogen

Nitrogen promotes leaf growth and bulb formation. Determine the specific needs for this substance by analyzing the soil, as it is usually enough to apply 20 to 40 kg of nitrogen per hectare.

Phosphorus

Phosphorus promotes root formation and the development of a strong root system. Apply this fertilizer before planting or at an early stage of plant growth.

Potassium

Potassium helps preserve onions and increases their resistance to various stresses, such as dry summers or low temperatures. It is usually applied in late summer or early fall before harvesting.

Planting depth and bulb spacing

Plant winter onions 2-3 cm deep into the soil with the flat side up. The distance between the plants should be about 10-15 cm so that each bulb has enough room to grow.

Watering and mulching

After planting, be sure to water the onions thoroughly. To protect them from frost, cover the soil with a layer of mulch or straw. This extra insulation helps to keep the ground temperature stable and also protects the onions during the winter months.

Keep the soil constantly moist, but avoid waterlogging as this can lead to onion rot.

Harvesting

Winter onions are usually ready to be harvested the following summer season when they reach proper maturity.