You can grow onions from onion ends by replanting the rooted base of a leftover onion. Here's how:
Growing Onions from Onion Ends: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Save the Root End: After using an onion, save the bottom portion (about 1-2 inches) that includes the roots. Ensure it is healthy and not rotten.
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Let it Dry (Optional): Some people recommend letting the cut end dry for a day or two to callous over, but this isn't strictly necessary. This can help prevent rot.
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Prepare a Pot or Garden Bed: Choose a pot with drainage holes or a well-draining spot in your garden. Onions prefer full sun (6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily) and well-drained soil.
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Plant the Onion End:
- Place the root end down into the soil.
- Press down gently to ensure good contact between the roots and the soil.
- Plant deeply enough so that the top of the onion end is covered by about an inch of soil.
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Water Thoroughly: Water evenly so the soil is uniformly moist, but not soggy.
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Provide Sunlight: Place the pot in a sunny south or west-facing window if indoors, or ensure your garden bed receives ample sunlight.
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Maintain Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist.
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Fertilize (Optional): Once new green shoots appear, you can fertilize with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength every few weeks.
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Harvesting: As the onion grows, green shoots will emerge. You can harvest these green shoots as scallions/green onions as they grow. The remaining onion bulb can be harvested when the tops begin to fall over and turn brown.
Important Considerations:
- Type of Onion: The type of onion you use will influence the type of onion that grows.
- Expectations: Growing an onion from an end piece may not produce a large, fully developed bulb like a store-bought onion. However, you will get usable green onions and potentially a smaller bulb.
- Disease: Watch for signs of disease and pests. Remove any affected parts promptly.
By following these steps, you can successfully regrow onions from the ends and enjoy fresh green onions from your kitchen scraps!
