Walla Walla Onion

Description

The Walla Walla variety of onion is renowned for its large size, sweet flavor, and mild taste. Originating from the Walla Walla Valley in Washington State, this onion produces large, globe- shaped bulbs with light brown skin and crisp, white flesh. Known for its exceptional sweetness, Walla Walla onions are perfect for fresh eating, slicing into salads, sandwiches, and salsas. They are also delicious when grilled or roasted, bringing out their natural sweetness even more. With its mild flavor and crisp texture, the Walla Walla onion is a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike, adding a touch of sweetness to any dish.

To plant Walla Walla variety onions, follow these steps:

1. **Timing:** Plant onion sets or transplants in early spring, as soon as the soil is workable and
temperatures are consistently above freezing. Walla Walla onions require a long growingseason, typically around 100-120 days from planting to harvest.

2. **Location:** Choose a sunny location in your garden with well-drained soil. Onions prefer soil  with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Avoid areas where onions or other members of the Allium family (such as garlic or shallots) were recently grown to reduce the risk of disease.

3. **Soil preparation:** Work the soil to a depth of about 6-8 inches, breaking up any clumps and removing rocks or debris. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-aged manure, to improve soil fertility and structure.

4. **Planting:** Plant Walla Walla onion sets or transplants about 1 inch deep and 4-6 inches apart in rows that are spaced 12-18 inches apart. If using sets, plant them with the root end down and the pointed end up. If using transplants, gently separate the roots and plant them at the same depth as they were growing in their containers.

5. **Watering:** Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the early stages of growth. Onions have shallow roots and require regular watering to develop properly. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.

6. **Fertilization:** Onions are light feeders but benefit from a balanced fertilizer application at  planting time. Side-dress with nitrogen fertilizer when the plants are about 6 inches tall and again when they begin to bulb. Follow the fertilizer package instructions for application rates.

7. **Weed control:** Keep the onion bed free of weeds, as they can compete with onions for nutrients and water. Mulching with organic materials like straw or grass clippings can help suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.

8. **Thinning:** If onions are planted too closely together, thin them out once they reach a diameter of about a pencil or when they begin to crowd each other. Thinning allows the remaining onions to grow to full size without competition.

9. **Harvesting:** Walla Walla onions are ready for harvest when the tops have started to turn yellow and fall over. Lift the bulbs carefully from the soil, and allow them to dry in a warm, well- ventilated area for several days. Once the outer skins are dry and papery, trim the tops and roots, and store the onions in a cool, dry place.

By following these planting guidelines, you can grow a successful crop of Walla Walla onions in your garden, providing you with sweet and flavorful onions for culinary use.