To plant Walla Walla onions from seed, it is important to choose the right time for transplanting or direct sowing. This can be done four weeks before the last frost or when the soil temperature reaches at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit. By following these steps, you can ensure a successful onion harvest.
1. Transplanting Seedlings:
– Start by growing the Walla Walla onion seeds indoors in a seed tray or pots, approximately 8-10 weeks before the transplanting date.
– Use a light, well-draining seed starting mix and sow the seeds about 1/2 inch deep. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
– Place the seed tray or pots in a warm location with plenty of sunlight or use grow lights if necessary. Onions require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
– Once the seedlings have reached a height of around 3-4 inches and have developed several sets of true leaves, they are ready to be transplanted.
– Prepare the garden bed by loosening the soil and incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage.
– Dig shallow trenches about 6 inches apart, with rows spaced 12 inches apart.
– Gently remove the seedlings from the seed tray, being careful not to damage the delicate roots. Transplant them into the trenches, spacing them 6 inches apart within each row.
– Firmly press the soil around the seedlings to ensure good contact and support.
– Water the transplanted seedlings thoroughly, keeping the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season.
– Mulching the bed with straw or organic mulch can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
2. Direct Sowing:
– If you prefer to sow Walla Walla onion seeds directly in the garden, wait until the soil has reached a temperature of at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
– Prepare the garden bed by loosening the soil and removing any weeds or debris.
– Sow the seeds at a rate of three seeds per inch, about 1/2 inch deep in rows spaced 12 inches apart.
– After sowing, cover the seeds with soil and gently firm it down to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
– Water the seeded area thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate.
– Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them to a spacing of 2-6 inches apart, depending on the desired size of the mature onions. Thinning allows the remaining plants to have enough space to grow and develop bulbs.
– Water the onion bed regularly, providing about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or supplemental irrigation.
– Weed the bed regularly to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
Personal Experience:
I have personally grown Walla Walla onions from seed using both transplanting and direct sowing methods. I found that starting the seeds indoors gave me a head start and allowed the seedlings to establish before being planted in the garden. Transplanting also provided me with the opportunity to carefully space the seedlings, resulting in larger onions. However, direct sowing can be a viable option if the soil temperature is suitable and if you prefer not to go through the process of starting seeds indoors. Whichever method you choose, it is important to provide consistent moisture and proper spacing for optimal growth.
Planting Walla Walla onions from seed involves either transplanting seedlings or direct sowing. By following the recommended spacing, soil preparation, and watering practices, you can successfully grow these delicious onions in your garden. Happy planting!