A Comprehensive Guide on Growing Candy Onions: Sweet and Easy-to-Grow Varieties

Are you looking to add a touch of sweetness to your garden? Candy onions might be the perfect choice for you! A hybrid of common onion and sweet onion varieties, candy onions offer a sweeter alternative to your standard onion. In this in-depth guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about growing candy onions successfully in your garden. From planting to harvesting, we’ve got you covered with valuable information and tips to ensure a successful harvest.

What Are Candy Onions?

Candy onions, scientifically known as Amaryllidaceae Allium cepa, are a unique hybrid that combines the best qualities of common and sweet onions. They are easier to grow compared to other onion varieties, thanks to their disease resistance and strong roots. These sweet and juicy onions can grow to extra-large sizes, making them a versatile choice for various recipes that call for onions.

Fast Facts About Candy Onions

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details of growing candy onions, let’s start with some fast facts to get you acquainted with this delightful vegetable:
– Candy onions are a hybrid of common and sweet onion varieties.
– They are sweeter than common onions but less sweet than sweet onions.
– Candy onions have a crispy and juicy texture, making them a versatile ingredient in various dishes.
– They require full sun and well-drained, fertile soil to thrive.
– Harvesting typically takes place 90-100 days after planting.
– Candy onions can be stored for up to 3 months in a cool, dry place.

How to Plant Candy Onions

When it comes to planting candy onions, a little preparation goes a long way. Follow these steps to ensure a successful growing season:
1. Timing: It is recommended to plant candy onions between March and May for optimal growth.
2. Method: Most gardeners prefer planting bulbs rather than seeds for candy onions. Directly sow seeds or bulbs into the soil or containers.
3. Spacing and Depth: Plant seeds or bulbs in rich, compost-amended soil, spacing them about 4 inches apart. Leave at least 16 inches between rows. Sow seeds half an inch deep and bulbs 2-3 inches deep.
4. Transplanting: While direct seeding is common, some gardeners have had success with transplanting seedlings for candy onions as well.

Candy Onion Plant Care Tips

To ensure your candy onions thrive throughout the growing season, here are some essential care tips to keep in mind:
– Light: Candy onions require full sun exposure, ranging from 13 to 16 hours daily. Plant them in beds or containers that receive ample sunlight.
– Soil: Ensure the soil is well-drained and rich in nutrients. Onions prefer slightly acidic soil, so consider amending with compost for optimal growth.
– Water: While onions don’t need daily watering, provide them with about one inch of water per week. Water more frequently during dry spells.
– Temperature and Humidity: Candy onions thrive best in temperatures between 55 to 80 degrees F. Plant them in early spring to avoid high temperatures that may cause bolting.
– Fertilizer: Onions benefit from nitrogen-rich fertilizers. Apply a nitrogen-based fertilizer 2-3 weeks after planting and continue every 3 weeks as they grow.

Harvesting and Storing Candy Onions

Once your candy onions have reached maturity, it’s time to harvest and store them for future use. Follow these steps for a successful harvest:
– Harvesting: Candy onions are ready to harvest 90-100 days after planting. Look for visible signs such as the plants falling over and dried skins. Harvest when the weather is dry to prevent spoilage.
– Curing: Cure your onions outdoors in a dry, well-ventilated area with temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees F. Avoid direct sunlight as it may scald the skins.
– Storage: For long-term storage, keep your candy onions in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or basement. They can store for up to 3 months when stored properly.

Growing Candy Onions in Containers

If you’re limited on space but still want to grow candy onions, container planting is a viable option. Follow similar planting and care instructions as you would in a garden bed, ensuring proper drainage and adequate sunlight for your container-grown onions.

Overwintering Candy Onions

For those looking to get a head start on their onion growing season, overwintering candy onions is a possibility. Plant them in late summer or early fall, cover with mulch to protect from winter temperatures, and watch them resprout in the spring for an early harvest.

Common Pests and Plant Diseases

While candy onions are more resistant to some diseases than other onion varieties, it’s essential to remain vigilant against common pests and diseases like botrytis, downy mildew, and purple blotch. Practice good gardening habits such as crop rotation, weeding, and using disease-free seeds to prevent infestations.

In conclusion, growing candy onions can be a rewarding experience for home gardeners looking to add a touch of sweetness to their dishes. With the right planting techniques, proper care, and attention to detail, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet and flavorful onions in your garden. So why not give candy onions a try in your garden this season? Who knows, you might just discover a new favorite vegetable to grow!

Remember, gardening is a journey of discovery, so don’t be afraid to experiment and learn along the way. Happy planting!