Preparation

Onion bulbs are a great vegetable to grow in your garden. They are easy to plant, grow quickly, and can be harvested in just a few months. Before you begin planting, you will need to purchase onion bulbs from a garden center or online. When selecting bulbs, look for those that are firm and dry, with no signs of mold or decay.

Next, choose a location in your garden that receives full sun and has well-drained soil. Onions prefer soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0, so test your soil and adjust the pH if necessary. You can also add compost or fertilizer to the soil to ensure that it is rich in nutrients.

Planting

To plant onion bulbs, begin by loosening the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches. Make sure that the soil is free of weeds and rocks, as these can impede the growth of the onion bulbs. Then, using a trowel or small shovel, dig a hole in the soil that is large enough to accommodate the bulb.

Place the onion bulb in the hole, with the pointy end facing up. The top of the bulb should be level with the surface of the soil. Then, gently cover the bulb with soil, making sure that it is firmly in place. Space the bulbs about 4 inches apart, with rows about 12 inches apart.

Care

After planting onion bulbs, it is important to keep them well-watered. Onions require about 1 inch of water per week, so be sure to water thoroughly, but avoid over-watering. In addition, be sure to keep the soil free of weeds, which can compete with the onion bulbs for nutrients and water.

As the onion bulbs begin to grow, you may notice that the tops of the plants turn yellow and begin to die back. This is a natural process that signals that the onions are ready for harvesting. However, if you notice any signs of disease or pests, be sure to address these issues promptly to prevent them from damaging your crop.

Harvesting

When the onion bulbs are ready for harvesting, you can either pull them out of the ground or gently dig them up with a trowel or small shovel. Allow the bulbs to dry in the sun for a few days, then remove the roots and the outer layer of skin. Store the onions in a cool, dry place where they can be used as needed.

Planting onion bulbs is an easy and rewarding way to add a delicious and nutritious vegetable to your garden. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh onions to use in your cooking throughout the year.