At a Glance
- In warmer climates, you can direct sow Walla Walla onion seeds in the garden after the last frost.
- Walla Walla onions are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and sandwiches to soups and stews.
- Planting Walla Walla onions is a rewarding experience, leading to a delicious and bountiful harvest.
The Walla Walla onion, with its sweet, mild flavor and impressive size, is a prized variety for home gardeners. Known for its large, flat, and globe-shaped bulbs, this onion is a culinary delight. But how do you grow these magnificent onions from seed to harvest? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you have a bountiful harvest of Walla Walla onions.
Understanding Walla Walla Onions
Before we delve into planting, let’s understand the unique characteristics of Walla Walla onions:
- Sweet and Mild Flavor: Walla Walla onions are renowned for their sweet, mild flavor, making them perfect for salads, sandwiches, and grilling.
- Large Size: These onions can grow to impressive sizes, with some bulbs reaching a diameter of 6 inches or more.
- Flattened Shape: Walla Walla onions have a flattened, globe-shaped form, distinct from other onion varieties.
- Short Growing Season: Compared to other onion varieties, Walla Walla onions have a shorter growing season, making them suitable for cooler climates.
Choosing the Right Time to Plant
The optimal time to plant Walla Walla onions depends on your climate:
- Direct Sowing: In warmer climates, you can direct sow Walla Walla onion seeds in the garden after the last frost. Aim for a soil temperature of at least 60°F.
- Starting Indoors: In colder climates, start Walla Walla onion seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. This gives the seedlings a head start and ensures a successful harvest.
Selecting the Ideal Location
Walla Walla onions thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Here’s what you need to consider:
- Sunlight: Choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Soil Drainage: Ensure the soil drains well to prevent root rot. Amend heavy clay soil with compost or sand to improve drainage.
- Soil pH: Walla Walla onions prefer a slightly acidic soil pH of 6.0-6.5. You can test your soil pH with a kit available at most garden centers.
Preparing the Soil for Planting
Proper soil preparation is crucial for healthy onion growth. Follow these steps:
- Tilling or Digging: Till or dig the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches. This allows for proper root development.
- Incorporating Organic Matter: Add compost, aged manure, or other organic matter to improve soil fertility and drainage.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, before planting.
Planting Walla Walla Onion Seeds
Now it’s time to plant your Walla Walla onion seeds:
- Direct Sowing: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 4-6 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 6-8 inches apart once they have two true leaves.
- Starting Indoors: Fill seed trays with seed starting mix and sow seeds 1/4 inch deep. Keep the soil moist and provide adequate light. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost, spacing them 6-8 inches apart.
Providing Essential Care
Once your Walla Walla onions are planted, they require regular care to thrive:
- Watering: Water consistently, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Weeding: Remove weeds regularly to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, especially during the growing season.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Harvesting Your Delicious Walla Walla Onions
The wait is finally over! Here’s how to harvest your Walla Walla onions:
- Timing: Harvest onions when the tops begin to die back and the bulbs feel firm. This usually occurs 100-120 days after planting.
- Method: Gently pull or lift the onions from the ground. Avoid damaging the bulbs.
- Curing: Allow the onions to cure in a dry, well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks before storing. This helps them dry out and store longer.
Enjoying Your Walla Walla Onion Harvest
Your hard work has paid off! Now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor:
- Storing: Store cured onions in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. They can last for several months.
- Cooking: Walla Walla onions are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and sandwiches to soups and stews.
A Bountiful Harvest Awaits!
Planting Walla Walla onions is a rewarding experience, leading to a delicious and bountiful harvest. By following these tips, you can cultivate these sweet and flavorful onions in your garden and enjoy their unique taste for months to come.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I grow Walla Walla onions in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow Walla Walla onions in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches wide and deep. Fill it with a well-draining potting mix and follow the same planting and care instructions as for garden-grown onions.
Q: How do I prevent onion flies from damaging my onions?
A: Onion flies can be a problem for onion crops. To prevent them, you can use row covers or netting to protect your plants. You can also sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of the plants to deter the flies.
Q: Can I save seeds from my Walla Walla onions?
A: It is not recommended to save seeds from your Walla Walla onions. This is because Walla Walla onions are a hybrid variety, and the seeds will not produce true-to-type plants.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Walla Walla onions?
A: Common pests include onion flies, aphids, and thrips. Diseases include onion smut, downy mildew, and white rot.
Q: How do I know when to harvest my Walla Walla onions?
A: Harvest onions when the tops begin to die back and the bulbs feel firm. This usually occurs 100-120 days after planting.
