Acclimating Onion Seedlings Before Planting

(From the “How to Grow Onions” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Before your onion seedlings are transplanted into the garden, there’s one crucial step to help them thrive: acclimation—also called hardening off. This process gradually prepares your young onions for the outdoor environment after being raised indoors or in a controlled greenhouse setting.

At 1st Choice Fertilizer, many onion seedlings start life in protected conditions where temperature, light, and humidity are carefully managed. While this encourages healthy early growth, it also means the seedlings need time to adjust to outdoor stresses like direct sun, wind, and cooler temperatures.

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Why Acclimation Matters

New onion seedlings are especially sensitive to environmental changes. Skipping or rushing acclimation can cause wilting, leaf burn, or transplant shock. Outdoor challenges your seedlings may face include:

• Temperatures below 50°F or sudden cold snaps

• Strong sunlight causing leaf scorch

• Drying winds that increase water loss

• Fluctuating day/night temperatures

These conditions are common in early spring but vary depending on your location and season. Gradual exposure helps your onions build resilience.

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How to Acclimate Onion Seedlings

Step 1: Start Slow

• Begin by placing your seedlings outdoors in a sheltered, shaded spot for a few hours each day.

• Avoid direct midday sun initially; morning or late afternoon sun is gentler.

Step 2: Gradually Increase Exposure

• Over 7 to 10 days, gradually increase the time your seedlings spend outside and their exposure to full sun.

• Watch the seedlings closely for signs of stress like drooping or leaf burn.

Step 3: Manage Watering

• Water seedlings before and after outdoor sessions to keep soil moist but not soggy.

• Allow the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings to promote strong root growth.

Step 4: Protect from Harsh Conditions

• Bring seedlings indoors if overnight temperatures drop below 40°F.

• Shield from strong winds or heavy rains during the acclimation period.

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When Are Your Onions Ready for Planting?

After about 7 to 10 days of gradual hardening off, your onion seedlings should be sturdy enough for transplanting outdoors. Ideally, plant on a cool, overcast day to minimize transplant shock.

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Extra Tips

• Adapt to Your Climate: The length of acclimation needed may vary—colder regions often require longer hardening periods.

• Indoor Alternative: If outdoor conditions remain harsh, keep seedlings near a bright window with good airflow until it’s safe to plant.

• Be Patient: Some seedlings adjust quickly, while others need more time—take cues from their appearance.

Properly acclimating your onion seedlings before planting is a simple but vital step to ensure strong, healthy growth in your garden. This care, combined with 1st Choice Fertilizer’s expert guidance, will set your onions up for a successful season.

Choosing the Right Location to Plant Onions

(From the “How to Grow Onions” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Success starts long before you plant a single onion bulb or seed. Choosing the ideal location for your onions will save you time and effort, helping your crop grow strong and healthy for a bountiful harvest.

Here are five key factors to consider before planting onions:

1. Sunlight

2. Soil Quality and Drainage

3. Surroundings and Crop Rotation

4. Spacing

5. Room for Future Plantings

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1. Sunlight: Onions Need Plenty of Light

Onions thrive in full sun—aim for at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Adequate light supports bulb development and prevents weak, spindly growth. Choose a location free from shade caused by buildings, trees, or taller plants.

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2. Soil Quality and Drainage: The Foundation of Healthy Onions

Onions prefer loose, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Heavy clay soils or spots where water pools after rain can lead to bulb rot and stunted growth.

If your soil is compacted or poorly draining, amend it with compost or organic matter to improve texture and drainage. Raised beds or mounded rows can also help prevent waterlogging.

Test your soil’s pH too—onions grow best in slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6.0 to 7.0). Your local extension office can provide testing services and recommendations.

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3. Surroundings and Crop Rotation: Think Ahead

Avoid planting onions where other allium family members (like garlic or leeks) grew recently to reduce disease risks. Practice crop rotation by moving onions to different garden spots each year.

Also, consider nearby plants and structures: onions don’t compete well with larger, shade-casting crops or invasive weeds. Choose a clean, open spot that is easy to maintain.

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4. Spacing: Give Your Onions Room to Grow

Crowding onions can lead to smaller bulbs and increased disease pressure. Proper spacing ensures good airflow and access to nutrients.

• For bulb onions, plant sets or seedlings about 4 to 6 inches apart in rows spaced 12 to 18 inches apart.

• For green onions or scallions, spacing can be closer, around 2 to 3 inches apart.

Remember to thin seedlings early to avoid overcrowding as they grow.

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5. Room for Future Plantings: Plan Your Garden Layout

Onions are often planted in succession to provide a steady harvest throughout the season. Leave space to add more beds or rows as needed.

Consider companion planting too—onions grow well near carrots, lettuce, and tomatoes but can inhibit beans and peas. Planning now helps create a healthy, productive garden.

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Ready to Plant? You’re Almost There.

Selecting the perfect spot for your onions is one of the best ways to ensure a successful crop. With a little planning and 1st Choice Fertilizer’s expert support, you’re on your way to growing vibrant, flavorful onions season after season.

How to Plant Onions the Right Way

(From the “How to Grow Onions” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Growing healthy onions starts with proper planting. Onions are fairly easy to grow once established, but giving them the right start in the soil sets the stage for vigorous growth and a great harvest.

Getting Started: Prep Before You Plant

If you’re planting onion sets (small bulbs), soak them in water for 1–2 hours before planting to rehydrate and jumpstart growth.

For onion seeds, prepare your soil carefully to ensure good seed-to-soil contact and moisture retention.

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Step-by-Step Planting Guide

Prepare the Soil
Onions prefer loose, fertile, well-drained soil. Till or loosen the soil deeply (6–8 inches) and mix in aged compost or 1st Choice Fertilizer’s Organic Vegetable Booster to enrich nutrients.

Create Rows or Beds
Form raised beds or rows about 6–8 inches high and 12–18 inches wide for good drainage.

Plant Onion Sets

• Space sets 4–6 inches apart in rows 12–18 inches apart.

• Plant sets pointed end up, about 1 inch deep—just enough to cover them with soil.

Plant Onion Seeds

• Sow seeds thinly in shallow trenches about ½ inch deep.

• Keep rows 12–18 inches apart.

• Once seedlings are 2–3 inches tall, thin them to 2–3 inches apart.

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After Planting: Water, Mulch, and Care

• Water immediately after planting to settle soil around roots and encourage root growth. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during early growth.

• Mulch with straw or shredded leaves to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

• Fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer like 1st Choice Fertilizer’s Vegetable Food every 3–4 weeks for best growth.

• Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and remove weeds promptly to reduce competition.

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Special Tips for Success

• Avoid planting onions where onions or other alliums grew the previous year to prevent disease build-up. Practice crop rotation.

• Thin seedlings early to avoid overcrowding and encourage larger bulbs.

• For green onions or scallions, closer spacing is fine, but bulb onions need space to develop fully.

• If your soil is heavy clay or drains poorly, consider raised beds or mounded rows.

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You’re On Your Way

With the right planting steps and ongoing care, your onions will thrive from the start. And with 1st Choice Fertilizer by your side, you have expert support and quality products to grow a healthy, flavorful onion crop season after season.

How to Prepare Soil for Planting Onions

(From the “How to Grow Onions” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Before your onion sets or seeds ever touch the soil, proper soil preparation lays the groundwork for a healthy, productive crop. Good soil means strong roots—and strong roots mean bigger, better onions.

Whether you’re planting in spring or fall, preparing your soil in advance gives your onions the best chance to thrive. Here’s what you need to know.

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Why Soil Preparation Matters

The right soil environment helps your onions:

• Absorb essential nutrients

• Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging

• Develop long, healthy roots for bulb formation

• Resist diseases and environmental stress

We recommend testing your soil before planting and periodically thereafter. Use a 1st Choice Digital Soil Meter for quick pH and moisture checks at home, or send a soil sample to your local Cooperative Extension for a detailed analysis.

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Understanding Soil Types

Your native soil will affect how much amending you need to do:

Clay or Silt Soils
Heavy and prone to compaction, these soils hold water but may cause poor drainage and root problems for onions.

Loam Soils
Ideal for onions—well-balanced, nutrient-rich, and with good moisture retention and drainage.

Sandy Soils
Drain quickly but dry out fast. Onions in sandy soil will need more frequent watering and organic amendments to keep moisture steady.

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When to Prepare the Soil

Prepare your soil when it’s workable—not frozen or waterlogged. Early spring or fall are typically best. Starting soil amendments in the fall allows organic matter to integrate fully by planting time.

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What to Add to Your Soil

Onions prefer loose, fertile soil with good drainage and steady moisture. These amendments help:

• Compost: Boosts nutrients and improves soil texture and moisture retention

• Well-aged Manure: Adds rich nutrients and organic matter

• Sand: Loosens heavy clay soil (use with compost for balance)

• Peat Moss or Coco-Fiber Growing Medium: Retains moisture and lightens soil

• Garden Lime: Raises pH if your soil is too acidic (below 6.0)

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Pro Tip

Use free organic materials from your yard—like shredded leaves, grass clippings, or garden debris—to build rich compost. Start collecting these in the fall to prepare nutrient-rich soil by spring.

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How Organic Matter Helps Different Soils

• In sandy soil: Binds particles to hold moisture and slow nutrient loss.

• In clay soil: Breaks up dense particles, improving drainage and root growth.

• In poor soil: Restores microbial life, boosting nutrient availability and fertility.

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Your Soil, Your Success

Great soil is one of the best investments for growing onions. Proper preparation leads to stronger growth, fewer problems, and a more bountiful harvest.

Ready to plant? Next in the “How to Grow Onions” series, we’ll cover watering tips—how much, how often, and common mistakes to avoid.

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Need soil amendments or advice? Check out our organic and premium products at www.1stChoiceFertilizer.com.

Fertilizing Onions for Healthy Growth and Bulb Production

(From the “How to Grow Onions” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Fertilizing onions is one of the best ways to improve soil fertility and ensure your onions get the nutrients they need—especially nitrogen, which supports vigorous leaf growth essential for large, healthy bulbs.

But not all onion beds need the same amount of fertilizer. That’s why testing your soil first is crucial. Whether you’re planting your first crop or growing year after year, soil testing helps you apply the right amount and type of fertilizer for optimal results.

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Why Fertilize Onions?

Fertilizer isn’t just “plant food”—it’s a precise tool that supplements your soil with essential nutrients your onions need to thrive.

The three key macronutrients in fertilizers are:

• Nitrogen (N): Promotes lush green leaf growth, which is vital since onion bulbs develop underground and depend on healthy foliage.

• Phosphorus (P): Supports strong root development, helping onions establish well early on.

• Potassium (K): Improves disease resistance and overall plant vigor, contributing to better bulb quality.

You’ll find these nutrients labeled as N-P-K on fertilizer products, including our 1st Choice Premium Fertilizer blends—formulated to meet the needs of vegetable crops like onions.

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Always Test Before You Fertilize

Soils vary widely in nutrient content. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive leaf growth but smaller bulbs, while under-fertilizing results in weak plants and poor yields. Use a 1st Choice Digital Soil Meter for quick at-home testing or send a soil sample to your local Cooperative Extension for detailed analysis.

Knowing your soil’s nutrient levels lets you choose the best fertilizer type and rate, whether that’s slow-release organic granules or a water-soluble mix for quick feeding.

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Fertilizing Young Onion Plants

Onions need nitrogen early to develop strong green tops. Apply a balanced fertilizer with a slightly higher nitrogen ratio just after planting or transplanting. Our 1st Choice Vegetable Starter Formula is ideal for giving young onions a nutrient boost to jump-start growth.

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Fertilizing Growing Onions

As onions mature, they still benefit from regular feeding to develop full-sized bulbs. Apply a fertilizer with balanced N-P-K during the growing season, but reduce nitrogen toward the end to encourage bulb maturation and prevent excessive leafiness.

For best results, side-dress the fertilizer about 4–6 weeks after planting, avoiding direct contact with the bulbs.

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When to Fertilize Onions

• First feeding: At planting or immediately after transplanting.

• Second feeding: 4 to 6 weeks later during active growth.

• Avoid late fertilizing: Stop feeding onions 4 weeks before harvest to help bulbs mature properly.

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Different Onion Types, Different Needs

Green onions and bunching onions generally need less fertilizer than bulb onions. Large storage onions require more nutrients, especially nitrogen early on, to support big, firm bulbs.

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⚙️ Don’t Forget Micronutrients

Along with N-P-K, micronutrients like sulfur and calcium are important for onion health. Sulfur contributes to the onion’s characteristic flavor, while calcium supports cell wall strength and reduces storage rot.

If your soil is deficient, consider applying 1st Choice Earth-Care Prime 5-8-8 Calcium+ or a balanced micronutrient supplement during the growing season.

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Need help selecting the right fertilizer for your onions?
Visit www.1stChoiceFertilizer.com for our complete line of organic and premium products and expert growing guides tailored to your garden.

Pest & Disease Control for Onions

(From the “How to Grow Onions” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Onions can face a variety of pests and diseases throughout their growing season. Factors like location, weather, and cultural care practices influence which problems you might encounter and how well your crop withstands them. Choosing resistant varieties, maintaining healthy soil, proper watering, timely fertilizing, crop rotation, and good sanitation are essential to keeping your onions strong and productive.

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Common Onion Pests

Onion Thrips
Tiny, slender insects that feed on onion leaves.

• Symptoms: Silver streaks or spots on leaves, leaf curling, and reduced vigor.

• Control:

  • Natural: Neem oil, insecticidal soaps (e.g., Safer® Insect Killing Soap), and spinosad-based sprays.

  • Cultural: Avoid planting onions next to heavily infested fields; maintain good weed control.

Onion Maggot
Small fly larvae that tunnel into onion bulbs.

• Symptoms: Wilting plants, bulbs rotting in the soil, foul smell.

• Control:

  • Preventive: Use row covers to exclude flies during egg-laying periods.

  • Sprays: Insecticides like Monterey Fruit Tree Spray Plus can reduce populations.

  • Crop rotation to reduce buildup.

Cutworms
Larvae of moths that chew through young onion stems at or below soil level.

• Symptoms: Seedlings cut off near the ground, stunted plants.

• Control:

  • Manual removal of larvae in soil.

  • Use of beneficial nematodes and biological insecticides containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).

Leafminers
Larvae that tunnel inside onion leaves creating winding trails.

• Symptoms: Blotchy, transparent leaf tunnels, weakened plants.

• Control:

  • Remove and destroy affected leaves.

  • Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays.

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Common Onion Diseases

Downy Mildew
Fungal disease favored by cool, wet conditions.

• Symptoms: Pale yellow spots on leaves that turn brown, grayish fuzzy growth on leaf undersides.

• Control:

  • Use resistant varieties.

  • Improve air circulation by proper spacing.

  • Apply fungicides like Monterey Liquid Copper Fungicide or neem-based sprays early in infection.

Purple Blotch
Fungal disease favored by warm, humid weather.

• Symptoms: Purple, sunken lesions on leaves and leaf tips that die back.

• Control:

  • Crop rotation and removing infected debris.

  • Fungicides such as Hi-Yield® Captan 50W Fungicide or copper fungicides.

Neck Rot
Fungal disease occurring mostly in storage onions.

• Symptoms: Soft rot at the neck of the bulb, gray mold.

• Control:

  • Cure onions properly before storage.

  • Avoid injury at harvest.

  • Store in cool, dry conditions.

Botrytis Leaf Blight
Causes leaf spots and dieback.

• Symptoms: Small white spots that enlarge and merge, leaf death.

• Control:

  • Remove and destroy affected leaves.

  • Apply fungicides like Monterey Fruit Tree Spray Plus or copper-based products.

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Additional Tips for Onion Pest & Disease Management

• Crop Rotation: Avoid planting onions or other alliums in the same spot more than once every 3 years to reduce pest and disease buildup.

• Sanitation: Remove plant debris promptly after harvest to eliminate overwintering pests and fungal spores.

• Proper Watering: Avoid overhead irrigation to reduce leaf wetness and fungal issues; water early in the day to let foliage dry.

• Resistant Varieties: Whenever possible, select onion varieties bred for resistance to common diseases in your region.

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For specific identification and tailored advice, contact your local county Cooperative Extension office. With the right practices and 1st Choice Fertilizer products, you can keep your onions healthy and maximize your harvest.

Onion “Pruning” and Maintenance

(From the “How to Grow Onions” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Though onions don’t require pruning like trees, regular maintenance is essential to balance growth, promote healthy bulbs, and prevent disease. Think of it as “pruning” your onions through strategic thinning, trimming, and care.

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Why Maintenance Matters for Onions

• Survival: Helps reduce stress and competition among plants, allowing stronger bulbs to develop.

• Stimulation: Encourages vigorous growth by removing damaged or diseased leaves.

• Shape & Structure: Maintains airflow and light penetration to reduce disease and improve bulb quality.

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Basic Onion Maintenance Principles

• Remove Yellowing or Diseased Leaves: Trim back any yellow, brown, or wilted leaves to prevent disease spread and focus the plant’s energy on bulb development.

• Thin Crowded Plants: When seedlings reach 2–3 inches tall, thin plants to 4–6 inches apart to give each onion room to grow large, healthy bulbs.

• Cut Flower Stalks (Bolting Control): If flower stalks (“scapes”) appear, especially in bulb onions, cut them back to redirect energy into bulb growth (unless you want to harvest the scapes).

• Keep the Growing Area Clean: Remove plant debris regularly to reduce pest and disease pressure.

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Timing Your Onion Maintenance

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Recommended Tools

• Sharp Scissors or Garden Shears: For trimming yellow or damaged leaves without harming healthy tissue.

• Gloves: To protect your hands during thinning and trimming.

• Clean Water and Disinfectant: Clean tools with diluted bleach or alcohol solution between uses to prevent disease spread.

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Tips: Young vs. Mature Onion Maintenance

Young Onions (Seedlings to Early Bulbing):

• Focus on thinning to prevent overcrowding.

• Trim damaged or diseased leaves promptly.

Mature Onions (Bulb Formation to Harvest):

• Remove flower stalks to boost bulb size unless harvesting scapes.

• Continue removing yellow or dying leaves for overall bulb health.

• Prepare for harvest by gradually reducing watering to allow necks to dry.

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Final Thought

Regular “pruning” by thinning and trimming keeps your onion crop healthy and productive. Combined with good soil preparation and fertilizing, proper maintenance ensures bigger, tastier onions come harvest time.

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Need help selecting fertilizer or pest control for your onions? Visit www.1stChoiceFertilizer.com for expert tips and products tailored to your garden’s needs.

Pest and Disease Control for Onions: Effective Spraying Guidelines

(From the “How to Grow Onions” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Successful onion growing depends on protecting your crop from common pests and diseases that can reduce yield and bulb quality. Understanding local risks and following a well-planned spray schedule are key to maintaining healthy, productive onions.

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Know Your Local Risks

Check with your county Cooperative Extension or local garden centers for region-specific pest and disease info. Experienced local growers are also valuable resources.

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When to Spray Onions

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Common Onion Pests & Recommended Sprays

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Common Onion Diseases & Recommended Sprays

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Combination Sprays for Onion Pests & Diseases

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Tips for Effective Spraying on Onions

• Follow product labels carefully for dosage, timing, and safety instructions.

• Spray thoroughly, covering both leaf surfaces.

• Avoid spraying during hot midday sun or drought stress.

• Do not spray when rain is expected within 24 hours.

• Test any new product on a few plants before widespread application.

• Use personal protective equipment such as gloves and masks.

• Monitor plants regularly to catch problems early and reduce chemical use.

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By maintaining a regular pest and disease spray routine, combined with good cultural practices like crop rotation and field sanitation, your onions will thrive with healthier growth and better yields.

For more help choosing the right products for your onions, visit www.1stChoiceFertilizer.com.

Onion Watering Guide

(From the “How to Grow Onions” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Onions generally have moderate water needs and are quite resilient in many soil types. Unless you’re growing onions in extremely dry conditions—such as arid regions, drought-prone areas, or containers—natural rainfall often meets much of their water requirements, especially after they’re established. However, young onion seedlings and newly transplanted sets do benefit from a consistent watering schedule to develop strong roots and healthy bulbs.

Using a product like 1st Choice Fertilizer can boost your onion crop’s success. This fertilizer improves soil nutrition and helps the soil retain moisture around the roots, which means less frequent watering and more efficient moisture use.

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Watering Tips for Onions

• Early Growth: Keep soil evenly moist to support root development and healthy leaf growth. Onions prefer steady moisture, especially during the first 4 to 6 weeks after planting.

• Rainfall: If your region receives about 1 inch of rain every 7 to 10 days, your onions should be well-watered naturally. If rainfall is limited, supplement with irrigation.

• Deep Watering: Water deeply but less frequently to encourage roots to grow downward. A slow, thorough soak to the root zone once or twice a week usually works best.

• Avoid Overwatering: Frequent shallow watering can cause weak root systems and increase risk of disease like bulb rot. Keep soil moist but not soggy.

• Soil Types: Sandy soils dry out faster and may need watering every 5–7 days, while heavier clay soils retain moisture longer and may only need watering every 10–14 days.

• Mulching: Apply mulch around onions to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

• Dry-Down Before Harvest: Gradually reduce watering about 1 to 2 weeks before harvesting onions to help dry down the bulbs and improve storage quality.

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Additional Considerations

• Creating shallow basins or furrows can help direct water to the onion roots and reduce runoff.

• Avoid watering the foliage if possible, as wet leaves increase risk of fungal diseases.

• Always adjust watering based on current weather, soil moisture, and plant health.

• Check for local water-use restrictions during dry seasons and comply accordingly.

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By managing your onion watering carefully and combining it with balanced fertilization like 1st Choice Fertilizer, you’ll promote healthy plants and maximize your harvest.

Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor: Onion Harvest and Storage

(From the “How to Grow Onions” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

After months of careful tending, the time has come to reap the rewards of your onion-growing efforts—harvest time! Knowing when to harvest and how to properly cure and store your onions will help you enjoy their full flavor and keep them fresh for months.

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When Will My Onions Be Ready to Harvest?

Onions generally mature between 90 and 150 days after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Keep an eye on the foliage—the tops will begin to yellow and fall over when bulbs are mature and ready for harvest. Patience is key, as premature harvesting can lead to smaller bulbs that don’t store well.

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How to Harvest Onions

• Timing: Harvest when about 70-80% of the tops have fallen over and started drying.

• Method: Gently loosen the soil around the bulbs with a garden fork or shovel, then lift them out carefully to avoid bruising.

• Aftercare: Leave onions on the soil surface or spread out in a warm, dry, shaded area with good airflow for curing.

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Curing Onions for Long-Term Storage

Curing is essential for drying out the outer layers and necks, which prevents rot and extends shelf life.

• Cure onions in a dry, well-ventilated space for 2 to 3 weeks.

• Ideal conditions are temperatures around 75°F and low humidity.

• Avoid direct sunlight to prevent sunscald.

• Once cured, trim the roots and cut tops to about 1 inch above the bulb.

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Storing Your Onions

Proper storage keeps onions fresh for months—sometimes up to 6 months or more—if handled right.

• Store onions in a cool, dry, dark place with good ventilation.

• Ideal storage temperature is between 32°F and 50°F.

• Use mesh bags, crates, or open baskets rather than sealed containers to prevent moisture buildup.

• Regularly check stored onions and remove any that show signs of softness or mold to protect the rest.

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Additional Tips

• Sweet onion varieties tend to have higher moisture content and generally store for shorter periods than storage onions.

• Avoid storing onions near potatoes, as potatoes release moisture and gases that can cause onions to spoil faster.

• If you notice sprouting onions, use them quickly in cooking or consider planting sprouted onions for a green onion harvest.

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With proper harvesting and storage, your homegrown onions will remain flavorful and crisp, ready to enhance your meals for months to come!