Onion (Autumn planted) Growing Guide

Allium cepa

Crop Rotation Group

Allium (Onion family) ●

Soil

Fertile, well drained soil with compost dug in. In clay soil, grow in raised beds or rows.

Position

Sun or partial shade.

Frost tolerant

Yes.

Feeding

Not normally required.

Spacing

Single Plants: 15cm (5") each way (minimum)
Rows: 15cm (5") with 25cm (9") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Onions can be grown from seed in which case start in pots under cover in late summer before planting out autumn to winter.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Japanese variety onion sets can be used to give an early harvest. Onion sets are also the better choice for heavier or wetter soils.

Harvesting

Harvest as soon as they reach a reasonable size. If storing them, wait until the tops start to die down and dry for about 10 days. Not recommended in the tropics.