Sprouted Onions Safe to Eat and Propagate: Tips for Indoor Growth and Outdoor Planting
Onion enthusiasts can rejoice: sprouted onions remain safe for consumption, provided they're not spoiled or moldy. This news comes with a host of tips on cultivating these plants, from indoor growth to outdoor hardening and planting.
Sprouted onions can be harvested 65 to 80 days after planting, depending on the initial bulb size and variety. This method of propagation likely originated from traditional farmers experimenting with sprouted bulbs for more effective onion cultivation.
Indoor growth is necessary for sprouted onion plants in cold areas until harvest. Despite having limited usable onion inside, they're best used for planting. Dividing a sprouted onion reveals multiple distinct onion sprouts, ready for propagation.
To prepare sprouted onion plants for outdoor planting, gradually introduce them to the outdoors to harden them off, especially if planted early in the season. Treat the sprouted onion like an onion plant start or 'onion set' for planting. Onions thrive in well-drained soil, require ample water, and need protection from weedy competition.
Onions can handle a light frost and are typically planted outdoors from seed about a month before the last spring frost.
In summary, sprouted onions are safe to eat and offer a unique propagation method for onion lovers. With careful attention to soil, water, and competition, these plants can thrive and provide a bountiful harvest.
