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.

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.

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 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.