In Kansas, gardeners have the opportunity to grow different types of onions, but it’s important to choose the variety that thrives best in this specific region. One key factor to consider is the length of the day, as different onion varieties have different requirements for daylight hours in order to form bulbs properly.
Kansas is located in a region where short-day onion varieties can be grown successfully. However, it’s worth noting that the bulbs produced from these varieties may be smaller compared to those grown in areas further south. This is because the plants in Kansas are triggered to form bulbs when they are relatively small in size. So, if you prioritize larger onions, it might be more suitable to opt for an intermediate-day variety instead.
There are a few recommended intermediate-day onion types that tend to perform well in Kansas gardens. These include Candy, Red Candy Apple, and Super Star. These varieties have been specifically bred to adapt to a broader range of day lengths, making them suitable for regions with varying day lengths like Kansas. By choosing these intermediate-day varieties, gardeners have a better chance of growing larger onions in their Kansas gardens.
To ensure successful growth of onions in Kansas, it’s crucial to provide them with the right care. Adequate watering and proper fertilization are essential for healthy onion plants. Here are some guidelines to follow:
1. Watering: Onions require consistent moisture, but it’s important not to overwater them. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Irrigate deeply, allowing the water to penetrate the root zone, and then allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly before watering again. Mulching can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
2. Fertilization: Prior to planting onions, incorporate well-rotted compost or organic matter into the soil to enhance its fertility. Onions are moderate feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) such as a 10-10-10 or 14-14-14, following the package instructions. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can result in lush foliage growth at the expense of bulb development.
3. Weed Control: Keep the onion bed free from weeds, as they compete with the plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Regularly remove any weeds that emerge and consider using mulch to suppress weed growth.
4. Sunlight: Onions require full sun exposure for optimal growth and bulb development. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
5. Planting and Spacing: Follow the recommended planting guidelines for the specific onion variety you choose. Generally, onion plants should be spaced around 4-6 inches apart, with rows spaced approximately 12-18 inches apart. Plant the onion bulbs with the tops just below the soil surface.
Personal experience: As a gardening enthusiast, I have grown onions in various regions and have had success with both short-day and intermediate-day varieties. In Kansas specifically, I have found that the intermediate-day types, such as Candy and Super Star, have produced larger bulbs compared to short-day varieties. However, it’s important to note that individual results may vary based on microclimate, soil conditions, and other factors.
The best variety of onion to grow in Kansas is an intermediate-day type such as Candy, Red Candy Apple, or Super Star. These varieties are better suited to the day length conditions in Kansas and have a higher potential for producing larger bulbs. By providing proper care, including adequate watering, fertilization, and weed control, gardeners can increase their chances of successful onion growth in their Kansas gardens.
