Harvesting onions involves carefully lifting the bulbs from the soil when they are mature, typically indicated by the tops falling over.
When Are Onions Ready to Harvest?
Knowing the right time to harvest is crucial for getting the best results. Onions are usually ready when the tops (foliage) start to yellow and fall over. This natural process signifies that the bulb has finished growing. It's best to harvest before the leaves are completely dry.
Harvesting Methods
According to gardening advice, you can harvest onions using one of two primary methods:
- Gentle Pulling: You can lift onions by gently pulling them by their foliage. This works well for smaller onions or when the soil is loose.
- Using a Garden Fork: For larger bulbs or compacted soil, insert a garden fork below the bulbs and push them up to loosen them from the ground. Be careful not to damage the bulbs with the fork tines.
Cleaning the Bulbs
Once lifted, it's important to clean the soil off the bulbs gently to prevent rot and prepare them for curing. Gently brush remaining soil off the bulbs with a soft brush or gloved hand. Avoid washing them with water, as moisture can encourage decay.
Post-Harvest Steps: Curing
After harvesting and cleaning, onions need to be "cured" before storage. Curing dries the neck and outer layers of the onion, helping it store longer.
- Place the harvested onions in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area, like a shed, garage, or porch.
- Spread them out in a single layer on newspaper, screens, or racks.
- Allow them to cure for two to three weeks, or until the necks are dry and the outer skin is papery.
- Once cured, the tops can be braided, tied, or cut off about an inch above the bulb.
Following these steps ensures you successfully harvest and prepare your onions for storage.
