Want to grow your own fresh spring onions? Whether in the garden or a pot on your windowsill, planting them the right way ensures a steady supply of crisp, flavorful onions. Follow this step-by-step guide to get started!

Choosing the right type of spring onions

Before planting, decide which type of spring onions (also called scallions or green onions) you want to grow. The two main types are:

  • Bunching onions (Allium fistulosum): These never form bulbs and are perfect for continuous harvesting.
  • Bulbing onions (Allium cepa): These are regular onions harvested young before the bulbs develop fully.

For the easiest and most productive crop, go for bunching onions if you want a continuous supply.

The best way to plant spring onions

Spring onions can be grown from seeds, sets (small bulbs), or store-bought onions with roots. Let’s go through each method step by step.

1. Planting spring onions from seeds

Growing from seeds is the most cost-effective way to start. Here’s how:

Step 1: Prepare the soil

  • Choose a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. A mix of compost and sandy loam works best.
  • Ensure the soil is loose and free of rocks to allow easy root growth.

Step 2: Sow the seeds

  • Plant seeds ¼ inch (0.5 cm) deep and 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart in rows.
  • Leave 6 inches (15 cm) between rows to give plants enough space.

Step 3: Water and wait

  • Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
  • Seeds will germinate in 7-14 days, depending on temperature and moisture.

2. Planting spring onions from sets (small bulbs)

If you want a quicker harvest, planting onion sets is a great option.

Step 1: Choose quality sets

  • Pick small, firm onion sets with no signs of rot or damage.

Step 2: Plant the sets

  • Place each set 1 inch deep with the pointy side facing up.
  • Space them 2 inches apart to allow for good air circulation.

Step 3: Water and care

  • Water immediately after planting and keep the soil moist as they grow.

3. Growing spring onions from store-bought onions

Yes, you can regrow store-bought spring onions if they have their roots intact!

Step 1: Cut and place in water

  • Cut off the green tops, leaving at least 1 inch of the white base with roots.
  • Place the base in a glass of water, submerging only the roots.

Step 2: Transfer to soil

  • After 3-5 days, once new green shoots appear, plant them in soil for stronger growth.

Ideal growing conditions for spring onions

To ensure a healthy, flavorful crop, provide the right conditions:

  • Sunlight: At least 6 hours of direct sun per day.
  • Soil: Well-draining, rich in organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils.
  • Watering: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Water 2-3 times per week, more in hot weather.
  • Fertilizer: Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer (such as fish emulsion or compost tea) every 2-3 weeks.

How to harvest spring onions

Spring onions are ready to harvest in 6-8 weeks. There are two ways to pick them:

  1. Cut and regrow: Snip the green tops 1-2 inches above the soil and let them regrow.
  2. Harvest completely: If you need the full onion, gently pull it from the soil.

For detailed instructions on harvesting and regrowing, check out Spring onions cut: how to harvest and regrow.

Common planting mistakes to avoid

  • Planting too deep – Seeds should be shallowly planted, or they won’t sprout.
  • Overwatering – Too much water can cause root rot. Keep soil moist but well-drained.
  • Crowding plants – Give each onion enough space for proper growth.
  • Ignoring fertilizer – Spring onions need regular feeding to stay lush and green.

Frequently asked questions about planting spring onions

1. When is the best time to plant spring onions?

Spring onions can be planted in early spring after the last frost, or in late summer for a fall harvest. They also grow well year-round in mild climates.

2. Can I grow spring onions indoors?

Yes! Use a deep container with well-draining soil and place it on a sunny windowsill for best results.

3. How long does it take for spring onions to grow?

Spring onions take 6-8 weeks from seed to harvest. If regrowing from cuttings, they can be ready in as little as 7-14 days.

4. Should I plant spring onions in pots or in the ground?

Both methods work well! If you have limited space, pots are ideal. For larger harvests, plant in a garden bed.

For a detailed guide on container planting, check out Planting spring onions in pots: a complete guide.

5. Can I plant spring onions next to other vegetables?

Yes! Spring onions are great companion plants for carrots, lettuce, and tomatoes. However, avoid planting them near beans and peas.

Final thoughts

Planting spring onions is easy and rewarding. Whether you start from seeds, sets, or store-bought onions, following these steps will ensure a healthy, continuous harvest. Give them the right conditions, harvest regularly, and enjoy the fresh, homegrown taste of spring onions all year long!