How to Plant Red Onions in a Pot

Red onions are a delicious addition to any dish, and they are easy to grow in a pot. Whether you live in an apartment without a garden or simply want to try your hand at container gardening, follow these steps to plant red onions in a pot:

Choose the Right Pot

When it comes to picking a pot to grow your red onions in, bigger is better. The pot should be at least 10 inches deep, but preferably closer to 14 inches. It should also have drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating and rotting the onion roots. Clay pots work well for onions because they provide insulation and prevent the soil from drying out too quickly.

Select the Right Soil

The soil you choose for your pot should be well-draining, loose, and rich in nutrients. A mix of compost, peat moss, and perlite is a good option. It is also helpful to add some all-purpose fertilizer to the soil, but be careful not to overdo it. Onions do not like too much nitrogen or they will develop large, leafy tops but small bulbs.

Sow the Seeds

Red onions can be planted from seeds or sets, which are small onion bulbs. If you are starting from seeds, sow them about half an inch deep and one inch apart. If using sets, plant them about an inch deep and four inches apart. Cover the seeds with soil and water well.

Care for Your Onions

Onions need plenty of water, so make sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Keep the pot in a sunny spot and fertilize every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Onions also benefit from being planted near herbs such as chamomile or marigold, which help repel pests.

Harvest Your Onions

After about 100 days, your onions will be ready to harvest. When the green tops have died back, carefully pull the onions out of the pot. Allow them to dry in a warm, dry place with good ventilation for a few days. Once they are dry, trim off the roots and tops and store them in a cool, dry place. Enjoy your homegrown red onions in salads, stir-fries, and more!

With these simple steps, you can enjoy fresh, tasty red onions grown right in your own home. Happy planting!