Multiplying onions are not the same as green onions, although they are related. Green onions, also known as spring onions or shallots, typically produce a single bulb per plant. On the other hand, multiplying onions, also known as potato onions or underground onions, have the unique characteristic of producing more than one bulb per plant.
The name “multiplying onions” is derived from their ability to multiply or reproduce by producing clusters of bulbs underground. This is different from green onions, which usually produce a single bulb. The bulbs of multiplying onions are typically smaller than those of green onions, but they multiply and divide over time, resulting in a larger crop.
I have personally grown multiplying onions in my garden, and I find them to be a fascinating and rewarding crop. The process of harvesting them is quite different from harvesting green onions. With green onions, you can simply pull the entire plant out of the ground, bulb and all. However, with multiplying onions, you need to carefully dig around the cluster of bulbs to avoid damaging them. It’s like a treasure hunt, uncovering the hidden bulbs beneath the soil.
Another difference between multiplying onions and green onions is their flavor. Green onions have a milder taste, making them suitable for raw consumption in salads or as a garnish. Multiplying onions, on the other hand, have a stronger and more pungent flavor, which makes them better suited for cooking. They add a delightful depth of flavor to soups, stews, and stir-fries.
In terms of growing conditions, multiplying onions are generally easy to grow. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade. Like green onions, they can be grown from sets or bulbs, which are small onion bulbs that are planted in the soil. These sets will then multiply and produce a larger crop of bulbs over time.
One of the advantages of growing multiplying onions is their ability to store well. After harvesting, they can be dried and stored in a cool, dry place for several months. This makes them a convenient option for those who want to have a supply of onions on hand throughout the year.
Multiplying onions are not the same as green onions. While green onions produce a single bulb per plant, multiplying onions have the unique ability to produce clusters of bulbs underground. They have a stronger flavor and are more suitable for cooking. Growing multiplying onions can be a rewarding experience, and they are a great addition to any garden or kitchen.
