How do I know when it’s time to harvest my onions?-February 2024-www.zdask.com

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Harvesting Onions

Definition: Harvesting onions refers to the process of gathering mature onions from the garden when they have reached their optimal size and have developed a dry outer skin.

Signs of Readiness:

Bulb Size: Onions are typically ready to harvest when the bulbs have reached their desired size. This can vary depending on the onion variety, but a general rule of thumb is when the bulbs are around 2-3 inches in diameter.
Foliage: Observing the foliage of the onion plants can also provide clues about their readiness for harvest. When the tops of the plants start to turn yellow and flop over, it indicates that the onions have stopped growing and are ready to be harvested.
Neck Softening: Gently check the neck of an onion bulb by squeezing it between your fingers. If the neck feels soft and pliable, it is a good indication that the onion is mature and ready to be harvested.
Dry Outer Skin: Another important sign of readiness is the development of a dry, papery outer skin on the onion bulbs. As the onions mature, the outer layers will dry out and become crispy. This dry skin protects the onion during storage and indicates that it is time to harvest.

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Harvesting Process:

Choose a dry day to harvest your onions. This will help prevent the onions from becoming damp and prone to rotting during storage.

Gently loosen the soil around the onion bulbs using a garden fork or trowel. Be careful not to damage the bulbs while doing so.

Once the soil is loosened, carefully lift the onions out of the ground by grasping the foliage near the base and pulling gently. Avoid pulling on the foliage alone, as it may detach from the bulb.

After harvesting, gently brush off any excess soil from the bulbs. Do not wash the onions, as this can remove the protective outer skin.

Allow the onions to dry in a well-ventilated area for a few days. This will further cure the outer skin and enhance their storage qualities.

Once the onions are fully dried, trim off the foliage, leaving about an inch of the neck attached to the bulb.

Store the harvested onions in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. They can be stored in mesh bags, crates, or even hung in braids.

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By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your onions are harvested at the right time and stored properly, allowing you to enjoy their delicious flavor and nutritional benefits for an extended period.

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