Onion bunching, White Lisbon

Onion bunching, White Lisbon

Growing Bunching Onion “White Lisbon” is a straightforward process. Here’s a guide to help you cultivate this variety successfully:

1. Planting Time: Bunching onions can be grown as a year-round crop. For an early spring harvest, plant seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost. For a fall harvest, direct sow seeds in late summer.

2. Site Selection: Choose a location with full sun exposure for optimal growth. Bunching onions can also tolerate partial shade.

3. Soil Preparation: Bunching onions prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Work in organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil fertility.

4. Planting Seeds: Sow onion seeds directly in the garden or in containers if starting indoors. Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart. Thin the seedlings as they grow to achieve the desired spacing, usually 3-4 inches apart.

5. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season. Bunching onions need regular watering, especially during dry periods. However, avoid waterlogged conditions.

6. Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer at planting time. If the soil is nutrient-poor, consider side-dressing with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during the growing season.

7. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the onion plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

8. Harvesting: Harvest Bunching Onion “White Lisbon” when the green tops are at the desired thickness, usually around 8-12 inches tall. You can harvest the entire plant or snip individual leaves as needed. Regular harvesting encourages continuous growth.

9. Successive Planting: For a continuous supply, consider successive plantings every few weeks. This helps ensure a steady harvest throughout the growing season.

10. Pest and Disease Control: Bunching onions are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for onion thrips or aphids. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for organic pest control. Practice good garden hygiene to minimize disease issues.

11. Temperature Management: Bunching onions are versatile and can tolerate a range of temperatures. They can be grown in both cool and warm seasons.

12. Storage: Bunching onions are best used fresh. Harvest and use them as needed. If storing, keep them in the refrigerator for a short period.

Growing Bunching Onion “White Lisbon” provides you with a fresh and mild onion flavor for various culinary dishes. Enjoy cultivating this versatile and low-maintenance onion in your garden!