< h1 >When to Plant Onions in Missouri

< h2 >Introduction

Planting onions in Missouri can be a great way to enhance your culinary skills and enjoy a bountiful harvest. Growing onions is not difficult, but you need to know the right time to plant. The location, soil, temperature, and sunlight are all-important factors that impact the growth of onions. In this article, we will discuss the right time to plant onions in Missouri and some key tips you should follow.

< h2 >Choosing the Right Time to Plant Onions

Choosing the right time to plant onions in Missouri is crucial. Ideally, onions should be planted in early spring or fall. The best time to plant onions in Missouri is between late March and early April. The weather conditions should be mild, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. If you miss the spring planting window, you can plant onions in late summer, around mid-August.

< h2 >Preparing the Soil

Before planting onions, you need to prepare the soil. Onions grow best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. You should add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil to ensure good drainage and provide essential nutrients. Onions thrive in soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.0. You can test the soil using a pH meter or a soil test kit. If the soil is acidic, you should add lime to increase the pH level.

< h2 >Planting Onions

To plant onions, you should start by choosing high-quality onion sets. Onion sets are small onion bulbs that have been seed-grown and harvested when they are about a pencil's thickness. You should plant the onion sets in rows about 12 inches apart and 1 inch deep in well-drained soil. Space them about 4 inches apart in the row. You should plant the root end of the onion set down and the pointed end up. Once planted, water the onions thoroughly.

< h2 >Caring for Onions

To ensure proper growth of onions, you need to take care of them. Onions require at least 1 inch of water per week. You should water them deeply and frequently, especially during the growing season. Onions also need regular fertilization to thrive. You should apply a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks. You should also remove weeds as they compete with onions for water, sunlight, and nutrients.

< h2 >Harvesting Onions

Onions take about 100 to 175 days to reach maturity, depending on the variety. You can harvest onions when the leaves turn yellow and wilt. You should pull the onions out of the ground and let them dry in the sun for a day or two. Once dry, cut off the roots and the tops. Store the onions in a cool, dry, and dark place to prevent sprouting.

< h2 >Conclusion

Planting onions in Missouri can be a rewarding experience when you follow the right guidelines. You should choose the right time to plant, prepare the soil, plant the onions correctly, and care for them properly. Additionally, you should harvest onions when they have matured and store them properly. With these tips, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of onions in Missouri.