German Gardeners Get Onion Head Start With Sprouted Bulbs
German gardeners are gearing up for the onion seasons, with a unique method to get a head start. They're planting sprouted onions, a practice that's gaining traction due to its time-saving benefits.
Sprouted onions, also known as green onions or scallions, can be directly planted into the garden or potted up indoors. This method allows gardeners to bypass the usual seed planting process, giving them a jump on the growing seasons. Each sprouted onion can be divided into its individual sections, with each section capable of growing into a full-sized bulb. This not only increases the yield but also provides a more robust plant.
Onions are relatively hardy plants. They can handle a light frost and are typically planted outdoors from seed about a month before the last spring frost. However, in colder regions like Germany, gardeners often start the process indoors. From early autumn (around September) through to early winter, they sow sprouted and trimmed onions in pots, allowing them to develop in a protected environment before being set out outdoors in spring.
Caring for onions is straightforward. They need ample water in well-drained soil and can't tolerate weedy competition. Given these conditions, onions can be harvested 65 to 80 days after planting, depending on the initial bulb size and onion variety.
Planting sprouted onions is a clever strategy for German gardeners to extend their growing seasons. By starting the process indoors during the colder months, they ensure a healthy crop ready for outdoor planting in spring. This method offers a faster route to fresh onions, making it a popular choice among local gardeners.
