How long do spring onions take to grow from seed

Harrison Clayton October 21, 2023 8

Spring onions, also known as green onions or scallions, are a popular ingredient in many dishes due to their fresh and mild flavor. Growing spring onions from seed is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy a continuous supply of this versatile vegetable.

So, how long does it take for spring onions to grow from seed? The germination time for spring onion seeds is relatively quick, usually ranging from 7 to 14 days. However, the time it takes for the plants to grow to full maturity depends on various factors like weather, soil conditions, and care.

Typically, spring onions take around 8 to 12 weeks to reach maturity from the time of sowing the seeds. During this period, the green stalks of the spring onions continue to grow and develop. The plants can be harvested at any stage of growth, from the tender baby scallions to fully grown spring onions with larger bulbs.

Process of growing spring onions from seed

Growing spring onions from seed is a fairly straightforward process that can be done by gardeners of all skill levels. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to grow spring onions from seed:

Prepare the soil: Choose a location in your garden that receives full sun and has well-drained soil. Spring onions prefer soil that is rich in organic matter, so amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
Sow the seeds: Plant the spring onion seeds about 1 inch apart and 1/4 inch deep in rows that are spaced 12 inches apart. Keep the soil evenly moist during the germination period, which usually takes about 14 to 21 days.
Thin the seedlings: Once the spring onion seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them out to about 4 to 6 inches apart. This will allow the remaining plants to develop into mature onions without competing for space and nutrients.
Water regularly: Keep the soil moist but not soggy throughout the growing season. Spring onions have shallow root systems and need consistent moisture to grow properly.
Fertilize as needed: Spring onions generally do not require much fertilization. However, if the soil is poor, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Harvest the spring onions: Spring onions can be harvested as soon as they reach the desired size, usually when they are about the size of a pencil. Simply pull them up gently from the soil, removing any loose dirt, and trim off the tops before using.

Germination and Initial Growth

The process of growing spring onions from seeds begins with germination. Spring onion seeds generally take around 7 to 10 days to germinate, but this can vary depending on various factors like soil temperature, moisture levels, and seed quality. For optimal germination, it is recommended to sow the seeds in well-draining soil and keep the soil consistently moist. You can also choose to pre-soak the seeds in water overnight to aid in quicker germination.

During the initial growth phase, the sprouted seeds will develop into seedlings. You will typically start to see the seedlings emerge from the soil within the first week after germination. These seedlings are delicate and require careful handling to ensure their healthy growth.

It is important to provide the seedlings with ample sunlight for proper growth. Place them in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day or use grow lights if sunlight is limited. Additionally, maintaining a temperature between 60°F (15°C) and 75°F (24°C) helps promote steady growth.

Regular watering is crucial during this stage to keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to rot or fungal diseases. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogged conditions.

As the seedlings continue to grow, you can thin them out to around 2 inches (5 cm) apart to provide adequate space for each plant to develop. This ensures better air circulation, minimizes competition for nutrients, and prevents overcrowding.

Overall, the germination and initial growth phase of spring onions require proper soil conditions, sufficient sunlight, regular watering, and careful thinning to ensure healthy and robust plants.

Maturing and harvesting of spring onions

Spring onions are quick-growing vegetables that can be harvested in as little as 8 weeks from seed sowing. The exact time they take to mature will depend on various factors such as weather conditions, soil fertility, and the specific variety of spring onion.

When growing spring onions, it’s important to monitor their growth and be patient until they reach a suitable size for harvesting. Most spring onions are ready for harvest when they reach a pencil-like thickness and have grown to a height of around 6-8 inches.

To harvest spring onions, gently grasp the tops of the plants and tug them upwards. The onions will slide out of the soil easily, and you can then shake off any loose soil. If needed, you can use a small garden tool like a fork to help loosen the soil around the onion.

After harvesting, remove any excess foliage and roots from the spring onions. You can store them in a cool, dark place for a few days if you’re not planning to use them right away. Alternatively, you can use them fresh in various culinary preparations.

If you’re growing spring onions for their bulbs rather than just the green tops, it’s best to wait until the bulbs have fully developed before harvesting. This will usually take a bit longer, around 10-12 weeks from seed sowing.

In conclusion, with the right care and attention, spring onions can be grown and harvested relatively quickly. By keeping an eye on their growth and waiting for them to reach the appropriate size, you’ll be rewarded with fresh and flavorful spring onions to enjoy in your meals.