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How to Know When Onions Are Ready to Harvest (And
How to Know When Onions Are Ready to Harvest (And
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potager
1 post
Apr 04, 2025
2:25 AM
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Growing onions is one of the most satisfying parts of gardening. From tossing them into stir-fries to caramelizing them for your favorite recipes, homegrown onions just hit differently. But one of the biggest questions new gardeners ask is: When are onions actually ready to harvest? And just as important—how do you cure them so they last?
I just harvested a batch of red onions myself, and the whole process—from pulling them out of the ground to curing them in an airy tray—was deeply rewarding. So, if you're asking the same questions I did, this guide will walk you through the five main signs your onions are ready and how to cure them the right way.
5 Clear Signs Your Onions Are Ready to Harvest
1. The Tops Start Yellowing and Falling Over
This is the classic sign. Once the green tops start to yellow and flop over, your onions are signaling that they’re done growing. This usually happens at the “neck” where the tops meet the bulb.
Pro Tip: Wait until at least half the tops in your onion bed have flopped before pulling them. Patience = bigger, better bulbs.
2. The Bulbs Look Fully Grown
Brush away a bit of soil and check the bulb size. If it looks full and firm—usually 2 to 4 inches depending on the variety—you’re good to go.
Don’t rush it: Letting onions finish maturing in the ground helps boost flavor and storage life.
3. The Neck is Drying Out
A dry, papery neck is another solid sign it’s time to harvest. If the neck feels soft or wet, it’s best to give it a bit more time.
Why it matters: Onions with dry necks cure better, which is crucial for long-term storage.
4. The Calendar Says It’s Time
Most onions mature between 90–120 days after planting. If you’ve been keeping track of planting dates, this can give you a good idea.
Quick guide:
Cool-weather onions: Ready by late spring/early summer
Warm-weather onions: Mid to late summer
Keep a garden journal—it’s a game changer.
5. The Bulbs Feel Firm
Give the bulbs a gentle squeeze. Mature onions should feel solid. If they’re soft or spongy, they’re either not ready or may be starting to rot.
Bonus Tip: Each onion variety has a slightly different
Loosen the soil gently with a trowel or garden fork.
Should You Cut the Tops Off Before Curing?
Traditionally, it's recommended to leave the tops on during curing. They help transfer nutrients and moisture evenly as the bulbs dry.
But here’s my twist: I trimmed the tops off my onions to fit them into a bread tray with big holes for airflow—and guess what? They cured beautifully.
Lesson learned: You can adapt techniques to fit your space, as long as airflow and dryness are top priorities.
How to Cure Onions for Storage
Curing onions is key if you want them to last for months. Here’s the simple process:
Spread them out in a single layer on a dry, ventilated surface (like a shaded porch, garage, or mesh tray).
Let them dry for 2–3 weeks. You’ll know they’re done when the necks are dry and the outer layers are papery.
Trim roots and tops to about 1 inch once fully cured.
Store in a cool, dark place with good air circulation.
No plastic bags! Mesh bags, baskets, or even pantyhose work best.
Why Curing Onions Matters
Curing isn’t just about drying your onions—it’s about preserving them. Those papery skins act like natural armor, protecting the bulb from moisture, mold, and pests.
Cured properly, your onions can last 3–6 months—sometimes even longer!
Final Thoughts: Harvesting Onions Like a Pro
Knowing when your onions are ready—and how to cure them—means you’ll have a pantry full of flavorful, long-lasting veggies. Stick with the basics (firm bulbs, dry necks, yellowing tops), but also feel free to experiment and adapt your method to what works best for your space.
At the end of the day, gardening isn’t just about following rules—it’s about learning what works for you.
Happy harvesting—and enjoy those onions!
Last Edited by potager on Apr 04, 2025 11:00 AM
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