How to Grow Onions Guide

Growing Non-GMO Spanish Yellow Onion Sets

To successfully grow Spanish Yellow Onions, start by selecting a well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5. These onions thrive in full sun, so choose a location with ample sunlight exposure. Onion sets can be pressed into the soil about 1-2 inches deep and 2-3 inches apart. Once reaching the greenonion stage at 6-8 inches tall, thin to 3-6 inches apart. This is important for allowing enough room for bulb development while producing a nice harvest of young green onions. Plant onion sets outdoors in spring, once the soil is workable and temperatures are no longer expected to fall below 28 F (typically in late March or April). Onions benefit from a balanced fertilizer application during the growing season, especially when bulb formation begins. We recommend applying fertilizer about a month after planting, at mid-season, and again about a month before harvesting.

Onions are heavy feeders, so supplement the soil with compost or well-rotted manure. Water consistently, aiming for at least 1 inch per week. Companion planting with beets, cabbage family, carrots, kohlrabi, lettuce, parsnip, peppers, spinach, strawberries, tomatoes, and turnips can enhance overall garden health.

Spanish Yellow Onion in the Vegetable Garden

Spanish Yellow Onions (Sturon Onions) serve multiple roles in both home and commercial gardens. Beyond their culinary uses as a versatile and flavorful cooking ingredient, these onions can also be strategically employed as companion plants. They harmonize well with beets, cabbage, carrots, kohlrabi, lettuce, parsnip, peppers, spinach, strawberries, tomatoes, and turnips, enhancing the overall health of the garden by promoting beneficial interactions and deterring potential pests. Moreover, their dual-purpose nature makes them valuable for gardeners with limited space. When harvested early, they function as mild yet flavorful green onions, offering a quick harvest for immediate use. Alternatively, when left to mature, they transform into crisp, sweet yellow onions with exceptional storage qualities, providing a sustainable and long-term supply for culinary needs. The adaptability and yield of Spanish Yellow Onions make them a valuable asset in any garden setting.

Harvesting Spanish Yellow Onion

Harvesting Spanish Yellow Onions involves careful observation and timing. The onions are ready for harvest when their green tops begin to fall over, turn brown, and wither. This indicates that the bulbs have reached maturity. To ensure optimal storage, it's advisable to wait for a dry day to start the harvest, or just before expected rain (curing under cover). Gently pull the onions from the ground, and once harvested, place them on top of the soil for a few days to allow the roots to dry. After this initial drying period, tie the tops together and store the onions in a dry, warm, and well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight for up to three weeks. This curing process further enhances their storage capabilities. Once fully cured, clip off the tops and roots, and store the onions in a cool, dry location. The drier the onions, the better they will store, providing a long-lasting and flavorful supply for future culinary endeavors.

About Spanish Yellow Onion Sets

Spanish Yellow Onions, a variety known for their excellent storage qualities and round, bronze-skinned bulbs, are a popular choice for both home gardeners and professional production.

To ensure success, plant them in well-drained, moist soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5 and provide ample sunlight. They are versatile, suitable for growing as green onions or allowing them to mature into flavorful storage onions.

The variety exhibits good bolt resistance and pairs well with companion plants like beets, cabbage, carrots, and more. Rich in flavor and adaptability, Spanish Yellow Onions are a reliable addition to any garden.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"To enhance the flavor and storage capabilities of Spanish Yellow Onions, consider practicing "bulb popping" during their growth. About a month before anticipated harvest, gently lift the soil around the bulb, exposing it partially to the sun. This process encourages the outer layers of the onion to dry and cure while still attached to the plant. It not only improves the storage quality by promoting better drying but also intensifies the onion's flavor. Ensure not to disturb the roots or damage the bulb during this process. Bulb popping is a simple yet effective technique to maximize the culinary potential of your Spanish Yellow Onions."

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer