McKinstry's Market Garden

Onions

McKinstry Farms • Tips from Farmer Will


Plant Type: Biennial grown as Annual
Season: Spring to Early Summer

Varieties We Grow:

  • Yellow Onion

  • Red Onion

  • White Onion


Light

Onions need full sun to develop big, healthy bulbs.


Water

Water consistently but avoid soaking. About 1 inch per week is ideal.
Reduce watering as the tops begin to yellow and fall over.

Farmer Will's Tip:
"Onions like it damp early and dry late."


Temperature

  • Grow best in 55–75°F.

  • Bulb growth depends on day length, so spring planting is important.


Soil and Fertilizer

  • Loose, sandy soil with lots of organic matter is ideal.

  • Fertilize lightly every 2–3 weeks until bulb formation starts.


Care Tips

  • Keep weeded — onions don't compete well.

  • Stop watering when tops fall over; harvest when 2/3 of tops are down.


Common Problems

  • Thrips: Tiny insects that damage leaves — rinse off with water or use neem oil.


Good to Know

Cure harvested onions in a warm, dry place for 2–3 weeks before storing.


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