Plant Onions In The Fall

If you live in Texas, you definitely want to plant the beautiful yellow onion called the Texas 1015Y this fall! The name says it all. Texas because this is where it will grow best. 1015Y because you should get it in the ground by October 15 of the current year. If you get it in the ground anytime in October, you will be fine. We grow this onion every year from seed and it does very well. 

You can find the Texas 1015Y onion seeds as well as all of our other onion seeds right here.

Are you looking to grow your own onions at home? Planting onions in the fall can be a great way to ensure a successful harvest. Read on to learn more about the benefits of planting onions in the fall and how to do it effectively.

Why Plant Onions in the Fall?

Planting onions in the fall has several advantages. Onions planted in the fall tend to have a longer growing season, which allows them to develop strong root systems before winter sets in. This results in larger bulbs and a better overall yield come harvest time. Additionally, planting in the fall can help onions establish themselves before the heat of summer, leading to healthier plants.

Choosing the Right Variety

When planting onions in the fall, it's important to choose the right variety for your region. Some varieties are better suited to cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours, making them ideal for fall planting. Look for varieties such as 'Texas 1015Y' or 'Yellow Sweet Spanish' that are known to perform well when planted in the fall.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting your onions, make sure to prepare the soil properly. Onions prefer well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. Work in some compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and structure. Avoid planting onions in soil that is too compacted or waterlogged, as this can lead to rot and poor growth.

Planting Technique

When planting onions in the fall, make sure to plant them at the right depth. Onions should be planted about 1/2 inch deep in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. If planting sets (small bulbs), place them root side down and cover with soil. Water the newly planted onions thoroughly to help them establish roots.

Providing Care

Once your onions are planted, it's important to provide them with the right care. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods. Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize the onions with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to promote healthy growth.

Harvesting

Depending on the variety, onions planted in the fall can be ready for harvest in late spring or early summer. Look for signs such as yellowing foliage and toppling over of the plants to indicate that the onions are ready to be harvested. Carefully lift the bulbs from the soil and allow them to dry in a well-ventilated area before storing.

By following these tips for planting onions in the fall, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, homegrown onions. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, fall planting can be a rewarding experience that yields delicious results.