Onion Guide | The Home Garden

For most people, Onions are a staple of the home garden. Check out this guide to learn how to grow them at home!

Soil

What soil is good for Onion?

Plant onions in rich, well draining soil with plenty of compost mixed in.

Position

How much sun does Onion need?

Onions require a full sun position.

Frost Tolerant

Is Onion frost tolerant?

Yes, Onions are frost tolerant.

Spacing

How much space does Onion need?

Space onions at least 15cm apart.

Planting

When should I plant Onion?

Onion is a cool season crop best planted in autumn, or in temperatures between 12 to 24 °C (55–75 °F).

If transplanting seedlings, plant out in the early morning or evening and/or on an overcast day. Avoid planting at peak sun times or on windy days, this will allow your plants to settle in comfortably and protect them from windburn and sunburn.

Feeding

What do I feed Onion?

Feed your Onion plants with an organic fertiliser throughout the season.

Harvesting

When can I harvest Onion?

Harvest Onions at your preferred size, usually harvested at just under a tennis ball size. Let the onions cure for two to three weeks (until the necks are dry and the skin is papery) before storing them in a cool, dry area with good airflow.

Pests

What pests does Onion get?

Pests that affect Onions include: Allium Leaf Miner, Aphids, Millipede, Onion Root Fly, Slug, Snail.

Diseases

What diseases does Onion get?

Diseases that affect Onions include: Allium White Rot, Downy Mildew, Fusarium Basal Plate Rot, Black Mold, Botrytis Leaf Blight, Fusarium Damping Off, Pink Root, Purple Blotch, Rust, Smut.