107 days from transplant. Uniform bulbs of a slightly flattened shape are resistant to field sunscald. Strong upright plants stand up naturally to foliar diseases, producing single centered bulbs with excellent interior color. The skin of the 4 - 5” bulbs dry to a deep maroon red.
FOR BEST RESULTS
For big bulbs: sow seeds in early spring as soon as soil can be worked; or in mild growing areas, sow seeds in fall to overwinter for spring growth. To Start Transplants: sow 1 in. apart in a container of seed starting mix and cover about 1/4 in. deep. Provide a strong light source until seedlings are 2 to 3 in. tall. Transplant 4 in. apart, burying crowns 1 in. deep. To Start Outdoors: sow seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Space 1 in. apart in rows 8 in. apart. Cover 1/4 in. deep, firm soil well over seeds and keep evenly moist. Thin seedlings gradually to final 4 in. spacing, using the tasty thinnings.
GROWING NOTES
Before planting, thoroughly work compost or well-aged manure and bone meal into the soil. It is critical to weed onions carefully and mulch once soil warms up to conserve moisture. Side dress lightly several times during the growing season with a general purpose fertilizer; stop fertilizing during the last 2 months of growth.
HARVEST AND USE
Harvest bulbs about midsummer when bulbs are sized up and about half the onion tops are bent over. Stop watering and bend the rest down and lay in the sun for another 7 to 10 days or until tops dry. Store in a cool, airy place. Use soon as these heirlooms are not known as long keepers.
Soil temperature: 60 - 65 degrees fahrenheit
Seeding depth: 0.25 - 0.5 inches
Germination days: 6 - 12 days
Grow on temperature day: 55 - 60 degrees fahrenheit
Weeks indoor: 5 - 8 weeks
Maturation days: 107 days
