How to grow red onions
In recent years, with the rise of home cultivation, shallots have become a popular choice for many home gardens due to their ease of cultivation, rich nutrition and versatility. This article will introduce in detail how to grow shallots, including seed selection, soil preparation, planting steps and post-management, to help you easily harvest high-quality shallots.
1. Planting time of shallots
Shallots are suitable for planting in spring and autumn, but the specific time varies depending on the regional climate. The following is the recommended planting schedule:
| area | spring planting time | Autumn planting time |
|---|---|---|
| northern region | March-April | September-October |
| southern region | February-March | October-November |
2. Selection and preparation of shallots
Choose healthy, plump shallots for seed and avoid moldy or damaged ones. The following are the selection criteria:
| indicator | Standard |
|---|---|
| Appearance | The skin is smooth and undamaged |
| size | The diameter is 2-3 cm. |
| Status | No germination, no mildew |
3. Soil preparation and planting steps
Shallots prefer loose, well-drained soil with an optimal pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Here are the planting steps:
| steps | Operation |
|---|---|
| 1. Site preparation | Turn the soil 20-30 cm and add decomposed organic fertilizer |
| 2. Ditching | The trench depth is 5-8 cm, and the row spacing is 20-25 cm. |
| 3. Planting | Space the onions 10-15 cm apart, with the tips facing upwards |
| 4. Cover with soil | Cover with 2-3cm of thin soil and compact lightly |
| 5. Watering | Water thoroughly to keep the soil moist |
4. Daily management of shallots
The following management points should be noted during the growth of shallots:
| Manage projects | request |
|---|---|
| watering | Keep the soil moist and avoid standing water |
| fertilize | Topdress nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium compound fertilizer once during the middle growth period |
| Weeding | Weed regularly by hand to avoid root damage |
| pests and diseases | Pay attention to controlling onion thrips and downy mildew |
5. Harvest and Storage of Shallots
Shallots are generally ready to harvest 90-120 days after planting. The following are harvest criteria:
| Harvest indicators | Features |
|---|---|
| Blade status | 2/3 leaves naturally lodging |
| Onion appearance | The epidermis is dry and purple in color |
After harvesting, dry the shallots for 3-5 days and then store them in a cool and ventilated place. They can be stored for 3-6 months.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
1.Question: Why don’t red onions grow big?
Answer: It may be caused by excessive planting density, insufficient nutrients or improper water management.
2.Question: What should I do after the shallots sprout?
Answer: You can continue planting, but it is recommended to plant them separately to avoid affecting growth.
3.Question: Can red onions be grown in pots?
Answer: Yes, choose a flower pot with a diameter of more than 20 cm, and plant 3-5 onions in each pot.
Through the above detailed planting guide, I believe you have mastered the essentials of growing shallots. As long as you follow the correct method, you can harvest delicious shallots in your garden or balcony. Happy planting!
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