Long Utah Sweet Spanish Onion Growing Guide

Long Utah Sweet Spanish Onion (Allium cepa) is a popular variety known for its large, globe-shaped bulbs and sweet, mild flavor. These onions are perfect for fresh eating, cooking, and even long-term storage when properly cured. Long Utah Sweet Spanish Onions are relatively easy to grow and are a great addition to any home garden.

     

Planting Long Utah Sweet Spanish Onion

Sunlight: Choose a location that receives full sun for at least 6-8 hours a day. Onions need plenty of sunlight to develop large, flavorful bulbs.

Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Onions thrive in loose, sandy loam soil rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to improve fertility and drainage.

When to Plant: Long Utah Sweet Spanish Onions are typically grown from seeds, sets, or transplants. In mild climates, seeds can be sown directly in the garden in late fall or early spring. In cooler climates, start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date and transplant them outdoors when the soil can be worked.

Direct Sowing: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches apart once they are a few inches tall to allow enough space for the bulbs to develop.

Transplanting: If starting seeds indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors when they are 4-6 inches tall and the danger of frost has passed. Space the plants 4-6 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart.

 

Caring for Long Utah Sweet Spanish Onion

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Onions need regular watering, especially during the early growth stages and bulb development. Water deeply once a week, and increase the frequency during dry periods. Avoid overhead watering, which can promote fungal diseases.

Fertilization: Onions are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting time. Side-dress with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 3-4 weeks until the bulbs start to form, then switch to a phosphorus and potassium-rich fertilizer to encourage bulb development.

Mulching and Weeding: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil temperature consistent. Mulch also helps prevent soil from splashing onto the bulbs, which can reduce the risk of disease. Hand-pull weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the shallow roots of the onions.

Pest and Disease Management: Onions can be susceptible to pests such as onion maggots, thrips, and cutworms. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or floating row covers to protect young plants. Practice crop rotation and ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases like downy mildew and white rot.

 

Harvesting Long Utah Sweet Spanish Onion

When to Harvest: Long Utah Sweet Spanish Onions are typically ready to harvest 100-120 days after planting. Harvest when the tops of the onions begin to fall over and turn yellow, which indicates that the bulbs have reached maturity.

How to Harvest: Use a garden fork or trowel to carefully lift the bulbs out of the soil. Be gentle to avoid bruising or damaging the bulbs. Once harvested, leave the onions in the garden for a few days to dry, or cure them in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks until the outer skins are papery and the necks are completely dry.

 

Storing and Using Sweet Spanish Onion

Storing Fresh Onions: After curing, store Long Utah Sweet Spanish Onions in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Properly cured onions can be stored for several months. Hang the onions in mesh bags, braid the tops, or store them in a single layer on trays. Check them regularly for signs of rot or sprouting and use any damaged onions immediately.

Culinary Uses: Long Utah Sweet Spanish Onions are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Their mild, sweet flavor makes them perfect for fresh eating, adding to salads, sandwiches, salsas, and garnishes. They can also be sautéed, grilled, roasted, or caramelized for use in soups, stews, and other cooked dishes.

 

Onion Growing Tips

Companion Planting: Plant onions alongside carrots, lettuce, and beets. Avoid planting near peas and beans, as they can inhibit onion growth.

Temperature Management: Onions are a cool-season crop and can tolerate light frost. In warm climates, plant onions in late fall or early winter for a spring harvest. In cooler climates, plant in early spring.

Soil Preparation: Onions prefer rich, well-drained soil. Before planting, work in plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to provide essential nutrients and improve soil structure.

Bulb Development: As the onions begin to bulb, stop fertilizing and reduce watering to encourage the bulbs to dry out and mature. This helps prevent rot and enhances storage life.

 

Growing Long Utah Sweet Spanish Onions in your garden ensures a steady supply of large, sweet onions perfect for a variety of culinary uses. Enjoy the flavor and versatility of this easy-to-grow, reliable variety!