Growing green onions, or scallions, from seed is a simple and rewarding process. Here's how to do it:
1. Starting Seeds Indoors (Optional but Recommended):
- Timing: Start seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost or when you plan to transplant them outdoors.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots filled with a well-draining seed starting mix.
- Sowing: Sow seeds about ¼ to ½ inch deep in the soil.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
- Light: Provide ample light. A sunny windowsill or grow lights work well.
- Temperature: Maintain a soil temperature of around 65-70°F (18-21°C) for optimal germination.
2. Direct Sowing Outdoors (Once Soil is Warm):
- Timing: Direct sow seeds in the garden after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. This is usually in the spring.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
- Soil Preparation: Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.
- Sowing: Sow seeds about ¼ to ½ inch deep and ½ inch apart in rows that are about 12 inches apart.
- Watering: Water gently but thoroughly after planting. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination.
3. Transplanting Seedlings (If Starting Indoors):
- Hardening Off: Before transplanting, gradually acclimate the seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them outside for increasing periods each day for about a week. This process is called "hardening off."
- Preparation: Dig shallow trenches, about 2 inches deep.
- Separating: Gently loosen the seedlings from their containers and carefully separate them.
- Trimming (Optional): Trim the roots to about ½ inch and the tops to about 4 inches. This encourages new growth.
- Planting: Plant the seedlings in the trenches, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart.
- Watering: Water well after transplanting.
4. Ongoing Care:
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Green onions need consistent moisture to thrive.
- Weeding: Keep the area around the plants free of weeds.
- Fertilizing (Optional): Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to promote growth. A liquid seaweed fertilizer is a good option.
- Harvesting: You can start harvesting green onions when they are about 6 inches tall. Simply snip off the green tops as needed. The bulb will continue to grow.
5. Tips for Success:
- Succession Planting: Plant seeds every few weeks for a continuous harvest of green onions.
- Soil: Well-draining soil is crucial to prevent root rot.
- Sunlight: Green onions prefer full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.
- Pest Control: Green onions are relatively pest-resistant.
By following these steps, you can easily grow your own fresh green onions from seed.
