When it comes to leaving red onions in the ground, there are a few factors to consider. The ideal time to harvest red onions is when the foliage starts to turn yellow and fall over. This signifies that the onions have reached maturity and are ready to be harvested. However, if you want to leave them in the ground for a longer period of time, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Firstly, it’s important to consider your climate. If you live in a dry climate, you can leave the onions in the ground for a longer period of time without worrying about them rotting. On the other hand, if you live in a humid climate, it’s best to harvest them sooner to prevent any potential rotting.
Once you notice the leaves on the first few plants starting to fall over, it’s a good indication that the onions are close to being ready. At this point, you should stop watering the plants. This is because withholding water helps to prevent rotting and allows the onions to finish maturing in the ground.
The length of time you should leave the onions in the ground can vary depending on your specific climate. In drier climates, you can leave them for around 7 to 10 days, while in more humid climates, it’s best to leave them for a shorter period of around 3 to 7 days.
During this time, it’s important to monitor the onions closely. Check for any signs of rotting or disease, as this could affect the quality of the onions. If you notice any issues, it’s best to harvest them immediately to prevent further damage.
When the designated time has passed, it’s time to harvest the onions. Gently loosen the soil around the bulbs using a garden fork or trowel, being careful not to damage them. Once the onions are lifted from the ground, lay them out in a dry, well-ventilated area to cure. This process allows the outer skins to dry and the flavors to develop.
The length of time you can leave red onions in the ground depends on your climate and the conditions in your garden. It’s best to stop watering the plants when the leaves start to fall over and leave them in the ground for 7 to 14 days, depending on the humidity level. Monitoring the onions closely and harvesting them when they are ready will ensure the best quality and flavor.
