Learning how to grow spring onions can be a rewarding and straightforward gardening project, perfect for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. These versatile vegetables not only add a fresh, tangy flavor to various dishes but also offer numerous health benefits.
Whether you have a sprawling garden or just a small balcony, learning the art of growing spring onions is a skill worth mastering. In this guide, I’ll take a unique approach, emphasizing the ease and joy of cultivating your spring onions, whether starting from scraps or seeds.
But first,
What Are Spring Onion Scraps?
Spring onion scraps are the leftover parts of the spring onion that you don’t usually use in cooking. When you buy spring onions from the store, they typically come with long green tops and a white bulb at the bottom with roots.
A spring onion contains:
- Green Tops: The green leafy part that grows above the ground. This part is often used in salads, soups, and as a garnish.
- White Bulb: The small, white, onion-like base with roots. This part is often chopped up and used in cooking for its mild onion flavor.
Scraps refer to the white bulb with the roots that you usually cut off and throw away. Instead of discarding these scraps, you can use them to grow new spring onions!
The Joy of Growing Your Spring Onions
Imagine stepping out into your garden or onto your balcony and snipping fresh spring onions to garnish your meals.
The crispness, the vibrant green color, and the unmistakable taste can elevate any dish, from salads to soups.
Growing spring onions at home not only ensures a constant supply of this kitchen staple but also offers a sense of accomplishment and connection to nature.
Spring onions, also known as scallions or green onions, are relatively easy to grow and require minimal space and care.
This makes them an ideal choice for urban gardeners or anyone looking to add a touch of green to their home.
Plus, with the option to grow them from scraps or seeds, you can choose the method that best suits your gardening style and resources.
Related: Growing Spring Onions in Containers
Let’s dive into the details of how to grow spring onions, starting with two effective methods: growing from scraps and growing from seeds.
How to Grow Spring Onions from Scraps
One of the most eco-friendly and budget-conscious ways to grow spring onions is by using kitchen scraps.
The method is perfect for those who want to start their gardening journey with minimal investment and effort.
Here’s how you can do it:
1. Gather Your Materials
- Spring onion roots (the white bulbous part with the roots still attached)
- A small glass or jar
- Water
2. Prepare the Roots
- After using the green tops of the spring onions in your cooking, save the white root ends.
- Ensure the roots are intact and clean.
3. Plant the Roots
- Place the roots in a small glass or jar with enough water to cover the roots but not the entire bulb.
- Position the glass in a sunny spot, such as a windowsill.
4. Care and Maintenance
- Change the water every couple of days to keep it fresh and prevent mold growth.
- Within a week, you’ll notice new green shoots emerging from the top.
5. Transplant to Soil (Optional)
- Once the shoots are a few inches long, you can transplant them into the soil for more robust growth.
- Choose a pot with good drainage and fill it with potting soil.
- Plant the spring onions so that the roots are buried and the green shoots are above the soil.
6. Harvest Your Spring Onions
- Continue to water and care for your spring onions.
- You can start harvesting the green tops once they reach about 6-8 inches in height.
- Simply snip off the amount you need, and the onions will continue to grow.
How to Grow Spring Onions from Seeds
Growing spring onions from seeds offers a different kind of satisfaction, as you get to witness the entire life cycle of the plant.
This method requires a bit more time and patience but can be equally rewarding.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grow spring onions from seeds:
1. Gather Your Materials
- Spring onion seeds
- Seed trays or small pots
- Potting soil
- Watering can
2. Sow the Seeds
- Fill the seed trays or pots with potting soil.
- Scatter the spring onion seeds evenly on the soil surface.
- Lightly cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.
3. Allow Them to Germinate
- Water the soil gently to keep it moist but not waterlogged.
- Place the trays or pots in a warm, sunny location.
- Spring onion seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days.
4. Transplant the Seedlings
- Once the seedlings are about 2-3 inches tall, they are ready to be transplanted.
- Choose a garden bed or larger pot with well-draining soil.
- Space the seedlings about 1-2 inches apart to give them room to grow.
5. Continue With the Care and Maintenance
- Water regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not soggy.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to encourage healthy growth.
- Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and address any issues promptly.
6. Harvesting
- Spring onions are typically ready to harvest 8-10 weeks after planting.
- You can harvest the entire plant or cut the green tops as needed.
- Regular harvesting encourages new growth, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh spring onions.
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Conclusion
Growing spring onions at home, whether from scraps or seeds, is a simple and rewarding gardening project.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy a fresh supply of this versatile vegetable year-round.
Not only will you enhance your culinary creations, but you’ll also experience the joy and satisfaction of nurturing your plants.