Onion Planting Methods and Timing Explained in Detail, Easy to Learn

Since the nutritional benefits of onions have been widely recognized, and onions themselves have the characteristics of high yield, strong stress resistance and good storage tolerance, their planting market is relatively stable, so how do you plant onions? Below we share with you the onion planting methods and timing.

1. When is the planting time for onions?

Different varieties of onions will have some differences in planting time, but the approximate sowing time is mostly concentrated around early September, that is, around the Bailu solar term, which is the best time to sow onions.

The sowing method is also very simple, just sow by broadcasting.

However, in order to improve the germination rate of the seeds, it is recommended to soak and sprout the seeds before sowing, that is, first soak the onion seeds in cold water for about 12 hours, then dry them and place them in an environment of about 23 degrees Celsius to sprout. Once the sprouts appear, they can be sown.

2. How do you plant onions? What are the planting methods?

1. Soil preparation

In order to prevent pests and diseases and ensure onion yield, soil preparation must be carried out before sowing. You can first deep-plow the plot, then sun-expose it for about 2 days, and then apply decomposed base fertilizer into the soil so that the soil and fertilizer are fully mixed.

2. Seedling stage management

After sowing, it is best to cover the soil with a layer of straw, then keep the straw moist. Once the onion seedlings grow out, the straw can be removed.

3. Transplanting onion seedlings

When the onion seedlings have grown about 4 true leaves, they can be transplanted. When transplanting, be selective and discard diseased seedlings, short seedlings and leggy seedlings. It is best to grade the onion seedlings.

The transplanting time can be chosen at the end of October. The row and plant spacing can be chosen at about 20 cm * 15 cm.

4. Field management

After transplanting is completed, corresponding fertilizer and water management and pest and disease control should be done well.

(1) Fertilizer and water management: Topdressing is mainly urea and nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium compound fertilizer, applied during the vigorous growth stage and bulb expansion stage. Each topdressing can be carried out together with watering.

(2) Pest and disease control: The main diseases are downy mildew, purple blotch and rust, and the main pest is onion thrips, which is generally more serious in rainy weather, so good ventilation is key. Check the field in time, and once disease occurs, apply the right remedy promptly.

Note that about 1 week before onion harvest, stop watering, otherwise the harvested onions will not store well, affecting returns.