Soil requirements
- They are moderate feeders. Compost plus a light nitrogen feed if plants are pale — label rates only.
- Weeds compete badly. A clean, mulched bed matters.
Watering
- Keep moisture even until tops start to yellow and fall. Then cut back so bulbs cure.
Sunlight
Full sun. Shade from tomato cages makes skinny bulbs.
Planting
- Sets are easy; plants (transplants) often make better storage bulbs.
- Match variety to your latitude. This is not optional trivia.
Spacing
- 4–6 inches for bulb onions. Square-foot: 9 per square is a common pattern.
Common problems
Bolting
Big sets, or a cold snap after growth starts. Use smaller sets.
Rot
Poor drainage or watering after tops have fallen.
Helpful tools
- The plant spacing calculator
- A dry rack for curing
Product links will be added when independently researched. See the garden tools hub for buying criteria.
Frequently asked questions
Why are my onions all neck and no bulb?
Wrong day-length type for your region, too much shade, or crowding. Check the variety group before you buy sets next year.