Growing Onions from Seed: A Complete Guide

by - 1/19/2025 08:00:00 AM

Spring is in the air, and there's something deeply satisfying about growing onions from seed. Today, I'm sharing my tried-and-true methods for starting these kitchen garden staples.

When to Start
The key to successful onion growing is timing. Start your seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date. Here in my garden, I typically begin in late January or early February for a spring planting.

Preparing Your Soil Mix

I've learned that onions thrive in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. I create a mix using:

- Three parts quality potting soil

- One part aged compost

- A sprinkle of balanced organic fertilizer

Sowing the Seeds
Here's my foolproof method:
Fill seed trays or containers (at least 2 inches deep) with your soil mix, leaving a half-inch at the top. Make shallow furrows about ¼ inch deep. Space seeds roughly ½ inch apart – don't worry if they're not perfect. Cover lightly with soil and mist gently with water.

The Critical Care Period

Maintain soil temperature between 65-70°F for optimal germination. I place my trays under grow lights or in a sunny south-facing window. Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. You should see sprouts within 7-10 days.

Transplanting Tips
Once your seedlings reach about 5-6 inches tall, they're ready for hardening off. I gradually expose them to outdoor conditions over a week before transplanting into the garden. Space plants 4-6 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart.

Common Mistakes to Avoid
The biggest mistake I see new gardeners make is planting too deep. Onion seeds are tiny and delicate – a light soil covering is all they need. Also, resist the urge to overwater; damp soil is good, soggy soil spells disaster.

With proper care, you'll be harvesting your own homegrown onions in about 100-175 days, depending on the variety. Nothing beats the flavor of freshly pulled onions from your own garden!

Would you like me to expand on any particular aspect of onion growing? 

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