Growing Redwing onions is a rewarding experience for any gardener. These beautiful red round onions are not only visually appealing but also have a very mild flavor, making them a versatile addition to many dishes. If you’re interested in cultivating Redwing onions in your garden, I’m here to guide you through the process.
1. Selecting the right location:
– Redwing onions require full sun for at least 6-8 hours a day. Choose a spot in your garden that receives ample sunlight.
– Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, as onions don’t thrive in overly wet conditions.
– Redwing onions can be grown in raised beds, containers, or directly in the ground.
2. Preparing the soil:
– Before planting, it’s essential to prepare the soil. Loosen it with a garden fork or tiller to a depth of about 8-10 inches.
– Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to enrich the soil and improve its fertility.
– Additionally, you can add a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for the onions’ growth.
3. Planting Redwing onions:
– Redwing onion sets (small bulbs) or transplants can be used for planting. Sets are easier for beginners, while transplants provide a head start.
– Space the sets or transplants about 4-6 inches apart in rows, with approximately 12-18 inches between each row.
– Plant the sets or transplants about 1 inch deep, ensuring the pointed end faces upwards.
4. Watering and maintenance:
– Onions require consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water them regularly, aiming for about 1 inch of water per week.
– Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to rotting. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
– Mulching around the onion plants helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and maintains a more consistent soil temperature.
5. Fertilizing:
– Onions benefit from regular feeding throughout their growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, following the package instructions for application rates.
– Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion or compost tea to provide nutrients to the plants.
6. Weed control:
– Keep the onion bed weed-free, as weeds can compete for nutrients and moisture. Regularly remove any weeds that appear near the onion plants.
– Mulching with straw or wood chips can help prevent weed growth and maintain soil moisture.
7. Harvesting Redwing onions:
– Redwing onions typically mature in about 80-100 days, depending on the growing conditions and the desired size.
– As the onions grow, you’ll notice the tops start to yellow and flop over. This indicates that the bulbs are reaching maturity.
– Lift the onions gently from the soil using a garden fork or trowel, being careful not to damage the bulbs.
– Allow the harvested onions to dry in a warm, well-ventilated area for a couple of weeks before storing them.
8. Storing Redwing onions:
– Once the onions have dried, remove any loose dirt and trim the roots and tops.
– Store the onions in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. Mesh bags or crates work well for storage.
– Properly cured Redwing onions can last for several months if stored correctly.
Growing Redwing onions is a delightful journey that culminates in beautiful, mild-flavored bulbs. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of these vibrant red onions. So, roll up your sleeves, get your hands dirty, and embark on the journey of growing Redwing onions in your garden.
