How to Plant an Onion in Water

Planting an onion in water is a fun and easy way to enjoy fresh onion greens all year long. Whether you're growing them for cooking or decoration, here are the steps to get started.

Step 1: Choose a Suitable Onion Bulb

When planting onions in water, it's best to use onion bulbs that are firm and have no signs of mold or rot. Select bulbs that are approximately the size of a tennis ball. Avoid using smaller bulbs as they may not produce as many greens.

Step 2: Cut the Onion Bulb

Using a sharp knife, cut the top 1/3 of the onion bulb off. Then, peel off the outer layer of the bulb until you reach the white inner layer.

Step 3: Insert the Onion Bulb in Water

Place the onion bulb in a narrow-mouthed jar or glass. Make sure that the narrower part of the bulb is at the bottom so that it can rest on the rim of the container. Fill the container with water, being careful not to submerge the bulb. The water level should be just below the bottom of the onion bulb.

Step 4: Place the Container in a Sunny Spot

Place the container in a sunny location, such as a windowsill. Onions need plenty of sunlight to grow, so make sure the container receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight each day.

Step 5: Change the Water Regularly

Change the water every 3-5 days to prevent the growth of bacteria or algae. Simply pour out the old water and replace it with fresh water. Rinse the onion bulb under running water before placing it back in the container.

Step 6: Harvest Your Onion Greens

Within a few days, the onion bulb will start to sprout green shoots. As the shoots grow, you can begin to harvest them by cutting them with a sharp pair of scissors. Harvest only the outer shoots, leaving the inner shoots to continue growing. Your onion greens should last for several weeks.

Planting an onion in water is a simple and rewarding experience that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Not only is it a fun way to grow your own food, but it can also add a touch of greenery to your home or office. Give it a try and see for yourself!