Sowing Indoors

Almost fill a seed tray with moist seed compost. Sow seeds thinly over the surface, and lightly cover them with a little more compost. Place in warmth 10-15C (50-60F).

Sowing Outdoors

Sow seeds thinly in a pre-watered shallow row, lightly covering with a little soil. Keep moist in dry spells.

Growing on / thinning

Keep seedlings in a light position, but shade from bright sun. When large enough to handle, transplant 5cm (2in) apart into trays of potting compost.

Thin seedlings to 15cm (6in) apart to allow full development of the bulbs.

Hardening off / planting

Gradually accustom young plants to outside conditions for 2-3 weeks before planting out to their cropping positions.

Allow 15cm (6in) between plants and 30cm (12in) between rows. For really big onions, allow 30cm (12in) between plants and 45cm (18in) between rows.