Is Walla Walla onion a short day onion?
As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can confidently say that the Walla Walla onion is not a short day onion. Short day onions, also known as “long-day” onions, require shorter daylight periods to form bulbs. These onions thrive in regions with 12-14 hours of daylight, typically in latitudes below the 35th parallel. However, the Walla Walla onion is known as a long day onion, requiring longer daylight periods to bulb up and reach maturity.
The Walla Walla onion variety is specifically adapted to regions with longer daylight hours, typically found between the 35th and 55th parallels. These regions include areas in the Pacific Northwest, particularly in Walla Walla, Washington, where the onion gets its name. The unique climate and extended daylight in these regions provide optimal conditions for the Walla Walla onion to grow and develop its characteristic sweet flavor.
Personal Experience: I have had the pleasure of growing Walla Walla onions in my own garden, and I must say, they are a delight. The long, sunny days in my region, which falls within the suitable latitude range, have allowed these onions to thrive and produce abundant, flavorful bulbs. Their mildness and sweetness make them a favorite among onion enthusiasts.
To further emphasize the suitability of Walla Walla onions for long day conditions, let’s explore some key characteristics and requirements of this variety:
1. Daylength Requirement: Walla Walla onions typically require 14-16 hours of daylight to initiate bulb formation. This is considerably longer than the daylight periods required by short day onions. The extended daylight hours allow the onion plants to accumulate enough energy to produce large, sweet bulbs.
2. Bolting Tolerance: Walla Walla onions have a higher tolerance for bolting, which is when the onion plant prematurely sends up a flower stalk. This tolerance is an adaptation to the longer daylight periods found in their preferred growing regions. The extended exposure to daylight triggers the plant’s reproductive phase, leading to the formation of the flower stalk. However, the Walla Walla onion variety has been bred to minimize bolting tendencies, allowing the plants to focus more on bulb development.
3. Growing Season: Due to their long day requirements, Walla Walla onions have a longer growing season compared to short day onion varieties. It is essential to start these onions early in the growing season to provide them with ample time to mature and form large bulbs. This may involve starting seeds indoors or purchasing transplants from local nurseries to ensure a head start.
The Walla Walla onion is not a short day onion but rather a long day variety. Its preference for longer daylight periods, typically found between the 35th and 55th parallels, makes it well-suited for regions with extended summer days. If you are considering growing Walla Walla onions, ensure that your location falls within this latitude range and provides the necessary conditions for these onions to thrive and produce their renowned sweetness. Happy gardening!
