Onions can be planted from transplants, sets, or seeds by following a few key steps focused on depth, spacing, and row arrangement for optimal growth.
Planting Methods
You can grow onions in three ways: from transplants, sets, or seeds. Each method has specific planting instructions to ensure successful growth.
Planting Steps
| Method | Depth (inches) | Spacing (inches) | Row Spacing (inches) | Seeds per Foot | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transplants | 1 - 1½ | 4 | 12 - 18 | N/A | Ideal for achieving a uniform crop quickly. |
| Sets | 1 - 1½ | N/A | 12 - 18 | N/A | Best for beginners due to their ease of planting and quick maturation. |
| Seeds | ½ - ¾ | N/A | 12 - 18 | 8 - 12 | Requires thinning after germination but offers a wider variety choice. |
Detailed Planting Instructions
Transplants
- Depth: Plant transplants 1 to 1½ inches deep.
- Spacing: Space them 4 inches apart within rows.
- Row Spacing: Arrange rows 12 to 18 inches apart.
- Benefits: Transplants are a great option for achieving a uniform crop quickly.
Onion Sets
- Depth: Plant onion sets 1 to 1½ inches deep.
- Row Spacing: Arrange rows 12 to 18 inches apart.
- Benefits: Sets are easy to plant and mature quickly, making them ideal for beginners.
Seeds
- Depth: Sow seeds ½ to ¾ inches deep.
- Seeds per Foot: Plant 8 to 12 seeds per foot of row.
- Row Spacing: Keep rows 12 to 18 inches apart.
- Thinning: Thin seedlings after germination to achieve the desired spacing.
- Benefits: Growing from seeds allows for a wider variety of onions but requires thinning.
Additional Tips
- Mounded Rows: Planting in mounded rows can improve drainage, especially in heavy soils. This technique helps prevent waterlogging and promotes healthier root development.
- Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is well-drained and fertile. Onions thrive in loose, well-aerated soil with plenty of organic matter.
