Egyptian Walking Onions, also known as Tree Onions, are a delightful addition to any home garden. Known for their peculiar ‘walking’ behavior, they sprout new bulbs from the top of the plant, which eventually fall over due to their weight and take root to form new plants. This creates a beautiful spectacle in the garden alongside the facilitation of multiplication.
Growing the Egyptian Walking Onions
Growing Egyptian Walking Onions is a gardener’s delight due to their unique growth pattern and low maintenance. They do not require replanting and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Able to thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 9, these impressive onions are known for their adaptability. In winter, a layer of mulch can be beneficial to protect the plants and retain moisture.
The ideal time to plant these onions is late summer, which allows the plants to establish themselves before winter sets in. The onions should be planted approximately an inch deep in well-drained soil. They do not have an issue with competition, so they can be located in close proximity to other plants.
Ripening and harvesting these fascinating plants
These remarkable plants are biennial with a two-year growth cycle and provide a bountiful harvest in different parts of the plant across seasons. In the first year, they grow from the bulb and leaf, and by the second year, they create a new set of bulbs at the top of the plant.
As the cycle continues, the new bulbs fall over due to their weight and plant themselves, hence their nickname ‘Walking Onions’. This cycle typically starts in late spring or early summer, leading to the perfect harvest time around July, when the top bulbs are fully mature and have fallen over.
Maintaining Egyptian Walking Onions
Maintaining these Onions involves trimming back the stalks in the fall, which allows nutrients to concentrate back in the main bulb. When it comes to pests, they are quite resistant. However, keeping an eye out for any signs of onion fly larvae is advised. Also, periodically removing any weak or unhealthy-looking plants can help ensure the overall health of your onion plantation.
Egyptian Walking Onions are a fascinating addition to your garden. Growing and harvesting them provides not only a bountiful harvest but also a unique and pleasing aesthetic in the garden. They’re also a testament to the marvels of nature and the biodiversity that it offers. So let’s embrace the wonder of these unique perennials and enjoy the beauty and bounty they bring to our gardens.
Emma Johnson is a passionate and insightful writer specializing in the house and garden niche, bringing over a decade of experience to her readers. At the youthful age of 34, Emma has already established herself as a leading voice in home improvement, landscaping, and interior design. Her journey began with a degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Georgia, followed by years of hands-on experience working with renowned landscaping firms across the country.
Emma’s writing career took off when she started sharing her unique ideas and eco-friendly gardening tips on her personal blog. Her ability to blend practical advice with aesthetic design quickly garnered attention, leading to her current position as a featured columnist for a prominent online news site.
Dedicated to sustainable living and innovative design, Emma’s articles offer a wealth of knowledge, from DIY home projects to the latest trends in garden technology. Her work not only enlightens homeowners looking to enhance their living spaces but also inspires a deeper appreciation for the environment.
When she’s not writing or experimenting in her own garden, Emma enjoys mentoring young designers and participating in community beautification projects. Her contributions extend beyond her written work, embodying her commitment to making the world a more beautiful and sustainable place, one home at a time.
