How to Plant Water Onion

Water onion, also known as Egyptian onion or walking onion, is a type of perennial onion that grows in clusters and reproduces by producing tiny bulbs at the top of the stem. These bulbs can be harvested and replanted to grow more water onions, making them a great addition to any garden. Here are some tips on how to plant water onion:

Choose a Location

Water onions prefer to grow in full sun to partial shade, and they can tolerate a wide range of soil types. However, they grow best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Choose a location in your garden that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day and has well-draining soil.

Prepare the Soil

Before planting, prepare the soil by adding compost or other organic matter to the top 6-8 inches of soil. This will help to improve soil structure and increase nutrient availability for the onion bulbs. Make sure to remove any weeds or debris from the planting area as well.

Plant the Bulbs

Water onion bulbs should be planted in the fall, about 1-2 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart. Make sure to plant them right-side up, with the pointed end facing upwards. If you are planting multiple bulbs, space them out so that each bulb has enough room to grow and produce more bulbs.

Care for the Onions

After planting, water the onions thoroughly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water onions require regular watering during the growing season, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize the onions with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to help promote growth and bulb production.

Harvesting the Onions

Water onion bulbs will begin to form at the top of the stem in late summer. Once the stems start to bend over and the bulbs are fully formed, harvest them by gently pulling them out of the ground. You can then replant these bulbs to grow more onions, or use them in cooking.

In Conclusion

Water onions are a low-maintenance, easy-to-grow perennial onion that can provide a steady supply of fresh onions year after year. With proper planting and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of these flavorful and versatile onions in your own backyard!