WALLA WALLA ONION STARTS

Transplanting Seedlings: Walla Walla Onion

1. Timing: Transplant Walla Walla Onion seedlings in Pendleton Oregon in early spring as soon as the soil is workable, typically 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Onions are cold-tolerant and can handle light frosts.
2. Preparation: Choose a sunny location with loose, well-draining soil enriched with compost or aged manure. Walla Walla Onions thrive in fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
3. Separating Seedlings: If seedlings are in a clump, gently remove the group from the pot. Soak the root ball in water to loosen the soil, and carefully separate the individual seedlings to avoid damaging their delicate roots.
4. Spacing: Space seedlings 4-6 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart. This spacing ensures adequate room for the bulbs to grow to their full, large size.
5. Planting Depth: Plant each seedling so the white part of the stem is just below the soil surface, leaving the green tops above ground. Ensure the roots are covered with soil and the seedlings are planted upright.
6. Watering: Water thoroughly after transplanting to help the roots establish. Maintain consistent moisture throughout the growing season, but avoid waterlogged conditions.
7. Mulching: Apply a thin layer of organic mulch to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Be cautious not to cover the bulb area heavily, as onions need good airflow.
8. Feeding: Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during the early growth phase to promote strong foliage. Switch to a balanced fertilizer when bulbs begin to swell for optimal development.

Growing: Onions need moisture especially in their first several weeks of growth, and they cannot fight against weeds; mulching onions can help with both moisture and weed control. Walla Walla onions are not attractive to deer; they also tolerate cold well.

Harvesting: When the tops of the onions turn yellow or flop over, they have matured and are ready to be harvested. Pull them from the earth, brush off the dirt, and leave them to cure in the sun for a week. If the weather turns rainy, bring them inside to cure in a dry, well ventilated place. When the skin dries, cut the tops down to 1″ and trim the roots. Store in a cool, dry place. Walla Walla onions do not store well for long periods of time.

Latin Name: Allium cepa

Type: Open Pollinated, Heirloom, Cool Season|Warm Season

USDA Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

Planting Method: From Transplant

Sunlight: Full Sun

Height: 16 Inches

Color: White

(CLICK HERE FOR ONION GROWING TIPS IN PENDLETON OREGON)