Onion Seeds (Organic) - Yellow Sweet Spanish

Yellow Sweet Spanish onions are a classic and widely loved variety, prized for their large, globe-shaped bulbs, sweet flavor, and versatility in the kitchen. As an organic option, these onions are perfect for gardeners who prioritize sustainability and natural growing methods. Known for their excellent storage life and adaptability to various climates, Yellow Sweet Spanish onions are a favorite among both home gardeners and small-scale farmers.

Key Benefits

• Sweet and Mild Flavor: Offers a balanced, sweet flavor with a slight tang, ideal for both raw and cooked dishes.
• Large Bulbs: Produces large, golden-yellow bulbs up to 4–6 inches in diameter, perfect for slicing.
• Certified Organic: Grown without synthetic chemicals, ensuring a sustainable and eco-friendly choice.
• Versatile Culinary Use: Ideal for salads, soups, grilling, or caramelizing for a rich, sweet flavor.
• Long Shelf Life: Known for excellent storage capability, lasting several months under proper conditions.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Large, globe-shaped bulbs with smooth golden-yellow skin and firm, juicy flesh.
• Flavor Profile: Sweet and mild, with a slight tang that enhances a variety of dishes.
• Growth Habit: Grows in upright clusters with long green tops and develops robust bulbs.
• Size: Bulbs can grow up to 4–6 inches in diameter under optimal conditions.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost for spring planting.
• Direct sow in early spring in cool climates or late summer for fall harvest in milder regions.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in loose, well-prepared soil.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 4–6 inches apart, with rows spaced 12–18 inches apart.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers rich, well-drained loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun exposure for at least 12 hours daily for optimal growth.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging. Provide about 1 inch of water per week, increasing during dry periods.

Fertilization

• Enrich soil with organic compost before planting and side-dress with additional organic fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10) as the plants grow.

Weeding and Mulching

• Weed regularly to prevent competition for nutrients, being careful around shallow roots.
• Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Monitor for onion maggots, thrips, and aphids. Use organic pest management methods such as neem oil or row covers.
• Diseases: Rotate crops annually and ensure proper spacing to prevent fungal issues like downy mildew and white rot.

Harvesting

Maturity

• Yellow Sweet Spanish onions are ready to harvest in 110–120 days.
• Size: Bulbs reach 4–6 inches in diameter when mature, with tops yellowing and falling over.

Method

• Gently loosen the soil around the bulbs and pull them up by the tops.
• Allow onions to cure in a warm, dry place for 2–3 weeks until the outer skins are dry and papery.

Storage

• Short-Term: Store in a cool, dark, and dry location with good ventilation for up to 2–3 months.
• Long-Term: Ensure proper curing to extend shelf life up to 6 months under ideal conditions.

Culinary Uses

• Raw: Sliced into salads, burgers, or sandwiches for a sweet, crisp bite.
• Grilled: Caramelizes beautifully when grilled or roasted, adding depth to savory dishes.
• Soups and Stews: Enhances flavor when sautéed or simmered in broths.
• Pickled: Makes delicious, tangy pickled onions for garnishes or toppings.

Conclusion

Yellow Sweet Spanish onions are a must-have for gardeners seeking a high-yield, flavorful, and versatile variety. As an organic seed option, they offer an eco-friendly way to grow onions while producing large, sweet bulbs perfect for fresh eating, cooking, or long-term storage. Whether you're a home gardener or a small-scale farmer, this variety is a reliable choice for delicious, sustainable harvests.