What are the best onion varieties for beginners?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Go for easy types for beginners, such as alliums that are resistant to bolting or temperature fluctuation (like Stuttgarter), and perhaps start with onion sets since they can be planted out the moment they arrive and grow more speedily than seed, need less thinning/planting out, and give you the added satisfaction of visible 'work in progress'.
Think about climate adaptability when choosing. I've had success with 'Red Baron', a good resistant variety in humid areas, and 'White Lisbon' is an excellent option if you're short on space and growing them in containers. I always trial at least three varieties each year to find the local stars. Explore what's best for where you are. Ensure that you choose according to your day-length requirements.
Start with onion sets. You will make quicker progress if you do. Sets are started onions. They skip germinating entirely. Plant them 4 inches apart in loose soil. I let mine soak overnight before planting. You will see your first leaves in days, not weeks.
Planting Preparation
- Choose bolt-resistant varieties matching your zone
- Soak sets 12 hours before planting
- Space 4-6 inches apart in rows
Growth Maintenance
- Water consistently during leaf development
- Apply balanced fertilizer at 3-leaf stage
- Weed gently to avoid root disturbance
Problem Prevention
- Monitor for thrips under leaves weekly
- Mulch to regulate soil temperature
- Stop watering when necks soften
Try container gardening with them, too! Plant White Lisbon in 12-inch pots with drainage holes, and fill them with a mixture of compost and potting soil for optimal nutrient availability. Rotate the containers weekly to ensure all sides get plenty of sunlight. You can transform your patio or balcony into a small patch of greenery.
Harvest "green tops" early for quick gratification! Just snip off a few outer leaves when the plant is six inches tall. Let the bulbs wait until the tops die back naturally. My "Stuttgarter" always produces rock-hard storage onions. You'll be reaping the benefits of your patience for months in the kitchen!
Increase the number of varieties you have each growing season; 'Candy' for sweetness and 'Red Zeppelin' for colour are great choices. Keeping thorough notes on your performance will help you build your experience as you achieve successful harvests and allow you to assist other novice growers later.
Read the full article: How to Grow Onions Successfully at Home
