Proper timing and technique are crucial for harvesting onions to ensure they remain well-preserved through winter and avoid rotting.

Best Time to Harvest Onions

Onions typically ripen in August. To prepare your onions for harvest:

  • Stop watering by the end of July to allow the bulbs to dry out properly.

Signs That Onions Are Ready for Harvest

Check for these signs to determine if your onions are ready:

  • Feathers: The green tops are yellowed and lying flat on the ground.
  • Necks: The necks of the onions are thin and dry.
  • Husk: The outer husk is dry and flaky.
  • Bulbs: The heads are large and brown in color.

Rules for Picking Onions

  1. Harvest in Good Weather: Choose a dry day for harvesting to facilitate proper drying in the sun.
  2. Initial Drying: After digging and shaking off excess soil, leave the onions in the garden for a couple of days to start drying.
  3. Indoor Drying: Bring the onions indoors and continue drying for an additional 7-10 days, turning them periodically to ensure even drying.
  4. Braiding: If you plan to braid the onions for storage, leave the green tops about 15 cm long to facilitate braiding and reduce the risk of diseases.
  5. Storage: Store onions in a dry place and in an airtight container to maintain their quality and prevent rot.
Garden Tips