Growing Walking Onions - How to Cultivate and Harvest
Walking onions, also known as Egyptian onions or tree onions, are a unique member of the allium family. These plants are known for their ability to grow new bulbs on top of older ones, giving them a distinctive look that sets them apart from other types of onions. For gardeners interested in growing walking onions, there are several important things to know.
Understanding Walking Onion Growth Habits
Before diving into the details of how to grow walking onions, it's important to understand their unique growth habits. Unlike regular onions, walking onions don't produce large edible bulbs. Instead, they produce small, flavorful bulbs at the base of the plant and clusters of bulbils on top of long stalks.
These bulbils, which look like tiny onions, can be harvested and replanted to create new plants. In fact, this is where the name "walking onion" comes from – the bulbils eventually become heavy enough to bend the stalk over to the ground, where they take root and grow into new plants.
Planting Walking Onions
Walking onions can be planted in either the spring or the fall, depending on your location and climate. They prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and full sun to partial shade.
To plant walking onions, start by selecting a site with the right conditions. Dig a hole about 1 inch deep and place a bulb or bulbil into the hole, making sure the pointed end is facing up. Cover with soil and water lightly.
Space the plants about 12 inches apart to allow enough room for the stalks and bulbils to develop. If planting multiple rows, space the rows about 18 inches apart.
Caring for Walking Onions
Walking onions require regular watering throughout the growing season, especially during dry periods. However, they don't like to sit in wet soil, so be careful not to overwater.
It's also important to keep the area around the plants free of weeds and other debris. Walking onions don't compete well with other plants, so keeping the area clean will help ensure healthy growth.
Finally, some gardeners choose to fertilize their walking onions with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and mid-summer. This can help promote healthy growth and good yields.
Harvesting Walking Onions
Walking onions can be harvested in several ways, depending on your needs and preferences. The small bulbs at the base of the plant can be pulled up and used like regular onions. They're great in salads, soups, and other dishes that call for a mild onion flavor.
If you're interested in propagating your walking onions, you can also harvest the bulbils that form on top of the stalks. Wait until the stalks have bent over and the bulbils have started to dry out before harvesting. Simply cut off the bulbils and plant them in a new location.
Walking onions can be a fun and unique addition to any garden. With the right care and attention, they can provide years of enjoyment and deliciousness!
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