Walla Walla Sweet Onion Seeds
Walla Walla Sweet Onion Seeds
The official state vegetable of Washington is the Walla Walla Onion, an heirloom variety of long-day onions. Thriving in the climate of the American Northwest, these yellow onions are known for their exceptional sweetness and flavor. They can be planted either in the fall for larger bulbs that can be overwintered or in early spring for a smaller size but even sweeter taste.
Renowned for their exceptionally sweet flavor, Walla Walla onions are crisp and juicy, making them perfect for both fresh consumption and cooking, particularly when grilled. When sown in the fall, these golden brown bulbs can reach sizes of 168 centimeters, while spring planting yields bulbs of about 8 centimeters.
This sweet variety is well-suited for overwintering and can be sown in either fall or early spring, even in northern regions. With its award-winning mild flavor and potential for substantial size, it is advisable to use them promptly after harvest as they do not store well.
Recognized as the "world's best tasting onion," the Walla Walla sweet onion holds the honor of being Washington state's official vegetable. Originating in the late 1800s when French soldier Peter Pieri brought Walla Walla onion seeds from Corsica to Walla Walla, this onion variety has been cultivated and cherished for its unparalleled sweetness since its first harvest in 1900.
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How To Grow
How To Grow
Sowing: Since onions take a few months to mature from seed, gardeners with a short growing season may want to start their Walla Walla onion seed indoors. Plant the seeds approximately 1.27 centimeters deep in a flat 5.08-8 centimeters before the last frost date; keep the soil moist and at approximately 20 degrees Celsius. When the tops begin to flop over, cut them off to about 8 centimeters to focus the growing on the roots. Four weeks before the last frost or when the soil reaches at least 10 degrees Celsius, transplant the seedlings about 15.24 centimeters apart in rows 30.48 centimeters apart. For direct sowing, sow three seeds per 2.54 centimeters deep in light, rich soil and full sun. Thin the seedlings approximately 5.08-15.24 centimeters apart, depending on the desired size. Thinned onions can be transplanted or used for fresh eating. For companion planting benefits, plant onions with members of the cabbage family, lettuce, or tomatoes; avoid planting onions with peas or beans. In areas with warmer winters, onions may be grown as a fall or winter crop.
Growing: Onions need moisture especially in their first several weeks of growth, and they cannot fight against weeds; mulching onions can help with both moisture and weed control. Walla Walla onions are not attractive to deer; they also tolerate cold well.
Harvesting
Harvesting
Once the onion tops have turned yellow or droop over, indicating maturity, it's time to harvest them. Carefully pull them from the soil, remove any clinging dirt, and allow them to cure in the sun for a week. In case of rainy weather, bring them indoors to cure in a dry, well-ventilated area. After the skins have dried, trim the tops down to 1" and remove the roots. Store the onions in a cool, dry location. However, it's important to note that Walla Walla onions don't store well for extended periods.
Seed Saving
Seed Saving
Onions require overwintering before they can produce seeds. In warmer regions, simply apply a thick layer of mulch and remove it in early spring. However, in areas with very cold winters, onions should be pulled up, with half the stem cut off, and stored at 32-40 degrees F in a dry location until spring, when they can be replanted. Before planting Walla Walla onions, make a small X in the top of each onion to allow the stalk to emerge. As the plants grow, they will eventually flower and produce seeds. When the seeds become visible, carefully remove the Walla Walla onion seed heads, being cautious not to shatter the heads and lose the seeds. Spread the heads out in a dry, well-ventilated area and allow them to dry for several weeks. After drying, thresh out the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place for up to 2 years.
Extra Facts
Extra Facts
Planting Methods: Indoor, Outdoor
Blooming Season: Fall
Planting Season: Early Spring to Late Summer
Latin Name/USDA Zones: Allium cepa/ 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Sunlight Required/ Height: Full Sun/ 30-45 cm
Can I Grow Onion Seed Sprouts?: Yes, you can grow onion seed sprouts! Soak onion seeds for 8-12 hours, then plant them in a tray or jar. Rinse and drain daily. Within 5-7 days, you'll have nutrient-rich sprouts ready to enjoy. These sprouts impart a mild onion flavor and are perfect for salads, sandwiches, or garnishes. Experiment with different onion varieties for varied tastes in your homegrown sprouts.
Seed Type: Open-Pollinated
Soil Type: Loam Soil