How to Grow Green Onions: A Beginner’s Guide

Green onions, also known as scallions or bunching onions, are one of the easiest and most rewarding vegetables to grow. Their mild, slightly sweet flavor makes them a staple in many dishes, and they thrive in various conditions, making them perfect for both beginner and experienced gardeners.

If you’re wondering how to grow green onions successfully, this guide will walk you through everything from choosing the right variety to planting, caring for, and harvesting your crop.

Choosing the Right Variety

Not all green onions are the same! Here are two popular varieties that are easy to grow:

• Tokyo Long White Bunching Onions – These have long, slender stalks and a mild flavor, making them a great choice for fresh use in salads and stir-fries.
• White Lisbon Bunching Onions – Known for their quick-growing nature and compact size, these onions are ideal for small gardens and container planting.

Both varieties are excellent for home gardens and provide a continuous harvest throughout the growing season.

When and Where to Plant Green Onions

Best Planting Time

• In cooler climates, plant green onions 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date or when the soil temperature reaches at least 45°F (7°C).
• In hot climates, such as Arizona, it’s best to plant in the fall and winter, from September to April, to avoid extreme heat.
• For continuous harvests, plant seeds every 2 to 4 weeks throughout the growing season.

Choosing the Best Location

• Green onions need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• They grow best in well-draining, loose soil with a pH of 6.2 to 6.8.
• Raised beds or containers work well if your soil is heavy or compacted.
• Companion planting tip: Grow green onions near spinach and strawberries for natural pest control and better growth.

How to Plant Green Onions

Planting from Seeds:

1. Prepare the soil by loosening it and mixing in organic compost.
2. Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and ½ inch apart.
3. Water lightly to keep the soil moist.
4. No need to thin seedlings unless you want to grow larger onions.

Planting from Sets or Transplants:

1. Space transplants 1 to 2 inches apart.
2. Plant so that the white portion is just below the soil surface.
3. Water immediately after planting to help roots establish.

Caring for Green Onions

Green onions are low-maintenance but require some basic care:

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Mulching: Apply a thin layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilizing: Green onions usually don’t need extra fertilizer, but you can apply a balanced organic fertilizer every 3-4 weeks for a boost.
• Pest and Disease Prevention: Green onions are generally pest-free, but keep an eye out for aphids and thrips. If necessary, rinse them off with water or use an organic insecticidal soap.

Growing Green Onions in Containers

If you have limited garden space, green onions thrive in containers! Here’s how to grow them successfully:

• Choose a pot at least 6 inches deep with drainage holes.
• Fill with nutrient-rich potting soil.
• Sow seeds or plant transplants as you would in the garden.
• Keep the container in a sunny spot and water regularly.
• Harvest as needed and enjoy fresh onions straight from your patio or balcony.

Harvesting Green Onions

• When to Harvest:
  • Green onions are ready when they reach 6 to 8 inches tall.
  • For continuous harvests, cut the green tops about 1 inch above the soil, and they will regrow.
  • If you want to harvest the entire plant, pull it up, leaving space between remaining plants.
• Storage Tips:
  • Use green onions fresh for the best flavor.
  • Store in the fridge with roots submerged in a small jar of water, changing the water every few days.
  • For long-term storage, chop and freeze them in an airtight container.
  • You can even replant the roots in soil or water to grow another batch!

Special Tips for Growing Green Onions in Hot Climates

If you live in a hot climate, such as the low desert of Arizona, follow these extra tips to keep your green onions thriving:

• Provide shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent bolting.
• Water deeply and frequently to prevent the soil from drying out.
• Plant seeds slightly deeper than usual to keep roots cooler.
• Choose heat-tolerant varieties for better success.

Green onions are one of the easiest and most versatile vegetables you can grow, whether in a garden bed or a container. With minimal effort, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown scallions year-round.

Now that you know how to grow green onions, why not start your own little onion patch today? Whether you’re a beginner gardener or an experienced grower, these delicious, fast-growing veggies are a must-have in any kitchen garden.

Happy gardening from Sow Haven!