Pulling Egyptian Walking Onions 2023

Harvesting and resetting Egyptian walking onions, also known as perennial onions or top-setting onions, can be a rewarding gardening task. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you with the process:

Timing: Harvesting and resetting Egyptian walking onions is typically done in late summer or early fall when the onion bulbs have developed and the foliage starts to die back. In my case I really need the space and don't have the time to wait till late summer or early fall, so today is the day!

Harvesting the onion bulbs: Start by gently pulling the onion bulbs from the ground. Since these onions reproduce by forming bulbils at the top of the stalks, you can choose to harvest the bulbs and/or the topsets, depending on your preference.

a. Bulbs: To harvest the bulbs, grasp the foliage close to the soil level and gently pull upward. The bulbs should come out easily, and you can separate them from the stalks.

b. Topsets (bulbils): If you want to propagate more onions, carefully detach the topsets or bulbils from the stalks. These small bulbs are found at the top of the plant's flowering stalks. Remove them by hand or with a gentle tug.

Resetting the onions: After harvesting, it's time to reset the onions for the next growing season.

a. Select a suitable location: Choose a well-draining area in your garden that receives full sun or partial shade.

b. Prepare the soil: Ensure the soil is loose, fertile, and free from weeds. Incorporate compost or well-rotted organic matter to improve the soil's quality.

c. Planting depth and spacing: Egyptian walking onions can be planted at a depth of about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm). Space the bulbs or topsets approximately 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) apart, allowing enough room for growth.

d. Planting process: Place the bulbs or topsets in the prepared soil with the pointed ends facing upward. Gently cover them with soil, firming it around the base to provide stability.

Watering and care: After resetting the onions, water the area thoroughly to settle the soil and promote root establishment. Maintain regular watering throughout the growing season, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

Overwintering: Egyptian walking onions are hardy perennials and can survive winter temperatures. As the foliage naturally dies back, it's a good idea to cut it down to ground level. Apply a layer of mulch over the planting area to protect the bulbs during winter.

Harvesting and resetting again: In subsequent years, the Egyptian walking onions will continue to grow and produce new bulbs and topsets. You can follow the same harvest and reset process described above.

By following these steps, you can successfully harvest and reset your Egyptian walking onions, ensuring a continuous supply of these fascinating and flavorful plants in your garden.