Walla Walla sweet onions thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Here's a guide to growing these delicious onions:
Getting Started
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When to Plant: Typically, Walla Walla sweet onions are planted in the spring as bareroot starts.
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Where to Buy: Look for bareroot bunches of 25 to 50 plants at local nurseries or online retailers specializing in onion starts.
Planting Instructions
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Sunlight: Choose a location that receives full sun (at least 6-8 hours per day).
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Soil Preparation: Walla Walla sweet onions prefer sandy loam soil that is evenly moist and rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
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Planting Depth and Spacing: Plant the onion starts about 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart. Space rows 12 to 15 inches apart.
Ongoing Care
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Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to rot.
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Fertilizing: Side-dress the onions with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package.
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Weeding: Regularly remove weeds from around the onion plants to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
Harvesting
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When to Harvest: Walla Walla sweet onions are typically ready to harvest in mid-summer when the tops begin to fall over.
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How to Harvest: Gently pull the onions from the soil.
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Curing: After harvesting, cure the onions in a dry, well-ventilated place for a week or two. This helps them store longer.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious Walla Walla sweet onions!
