What's the secret to growing onions?

[NoSnooz]

Everything I've ever read about growing onions said they're easy. Every time I've tried to, I've failed - I can't even grow them from sets!
The first time I planted sets a few years ago, they would grow scallions but wouldn't develop bulbs. This year, I've started some from seeds in a flat and they're not growing too big either. A couple of weeks ago, I put some sets in the ground and they're not taking off either. Should I give up or what?

[Billy Fussell]

After the sets get established, keep the dirt around them loose. This will help them spread out. As the bulbs develope, start pulling dirt away from them. It won't hurt if half the bulb is above ground. But keep the soil loose. Tight soil will restrict the ability of the bulb to spread out. And fertilize well. This is what I do.

Billy

[Bill Hudson]

Try these two factsheets for information on growing onions. Do not forget the importance of soil pH and fertility.

http://www.extension.umn.edu/yardandgar ... onion.html

http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/1000/1616.html

Good luck.

Bill

[tnestell]

I had luck starting onions from seed in January under a florescent light for 18 hours a day. Kept the tops cut to about 4" till planting. I'm not a great gardner like my neighbor, these turned out nice, but took a lot of trouble.