Onions seed by producing a flowering stalk that culminates in an umbel containing hundreds of tiny black seeds.
Here's a more detailed look at the onion seeding process:
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Bolting: Onions are biennials, meaning they typically complete their life cycle in two years. In the first year, they grow their bulb. The following year, if conditions are right (often triggered by a period of cold followed by warmer temperatures), the onion plant will "bolt," which means it sends up a flower stalk.
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Flowering Stalk Development: A hollow flower stalk, also known as a scape, emerges from the center of the onion plant. This stalk can grow quite tall, often reaching 2-4 feet in height.
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Umbel Formation: At the top of the flower stalk, a spherical cluster of tiny flowers forms. This cluster is called an umbel. The umbel is initially enclosed in a papery sheath that eventually splits open, revealing the developing flowers.
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Pollination: The individual flowers within the umbel are typically white or purple and are pollinated by insects such as bees and flies. Cross-pollination between different onion varieties results in hybrid seeds.
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Seed Development: After successful pollination, the flowers develop into small seed pods. These pods will eventually dry out and turn brown.
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Seed Harvesting: Once the seed pods are completely dry, they can be harvested. Gently break open the dried pods to release the tiny, black onion seeds.
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Seed Viability: Onion seeds have a relatively short shelf life, typically remaining viable for only about one year. Therefore, it's best to use fresh seeds for planting.
Here is a summary table:
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Bolting | The onion plant sends up a flower stalk in its second year, often triggered by cold temperatures. |
| Stalk Growth | A hollow flower stalk (scape) emerges, growing to several feet tall. |
| Umbel Formation | A spherical cluster of tiny flowers (umbel) develops at the top of the stalk. |
| Pollination | Insects pollinate the individual flowers within the umbel. |
| Seed Development | Flowers develop into seed pods after pollination. |
| Harvesting | Dried seed pods are harvested, and the tiny black seeds are extracted. |
