Can You Plant Onions That Have Sprouted

Introduction

Onions are a versatile and flavorful vegetable that is often used in cooking. Sometimes, onions that are left unused for a while can sprout, leaving many people wondering if they can still be planted. In this article, we will explore whether you can plant onions that have sprouted.

What are sprouted onions

Onions that have sprouted are basically the same as regular onions, but with a green shoot growing from the top. This happens when the onion bulb is exposed to sunlight and warmth, causing the dormant shoot to grow.

Can you plant sprouted onions

Yes, you can plant sprouted onions. In fact, sprouted onions are ideal for planting because the green shoot already established will help the onion grow faster. However, you should take a few things into consideration before planting sprouted onions.

How to plant sprouted onions

The first thing you should do when planting sprouted onions is to separate the onion from the sprout. Gently twist the sprout until it comes off, being careful not to damage the onion bulb. Now you can plant the onion bulb as you would with regular onions.

When planting the onion bulb, be sure to plant it with the root end facing down and the pointed end facing up. Cover it with soil and water it thoroughly. Then, place the onion in a sunny spot with good drainage and water it regularly.

When to plant sprouted onions

The best time to plant sprouted onions is in the spring when the soil has begun to warm up. If you live in an area with a mild winter, you can also plant them in the fall.

Harvesting sprouted onions

Once your sprouted onions have grown to maturity, the leaves will begin to yellow and die back. This is a sign that it's time to harvest them. Carefully pull up the onion bulbs and store them in a cool, dry place.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you can plant onions that have sprouted, and it's even better to do so than planting regular onions. Now that you know how to plant and care for sprouted onions, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown onions all year round. So, don't throw away those sprouted onions and start planting them today!