There's no gardener who hasn't heard of or grown this type of onion - the incredible Exhibition! Magazines and articles are literally overflowing with information about this wonder-vegetable. Giant, unusual taste, onion-fruit - that's all about it. How not to try growing such a curiosity! And then how to stop dealing with annual onion cultivation through seedlings))

Based on my experience of growing: from exotics to the most ordinary flowers, I've tried to do without buying onion sets in garden vegetable cultivation. Honestly, growing simple onions from seeds didn't suit me. However, this doesn't apply to planting Exhibition. I'm willing to put in extra effort for these bulbs.

Purchasing seeds, choosing a brand:

Throughout my gardening experience (both on a balcony and after realizing the desire to increase the scale of land cultivation - on my own plot) I've bought onion seeds under various brand names. But I've settled on packaged Dutch ones - with the name of the retail network where I usually buy part of the planting material.

Seed appearance:

The planting material has been treated with chemicals: the seeds are enclosed in green-colored granules (hulls). But no one will eat them in the soil before they germinate.

Cultivation, care:

Deep containers filled with soil are prepared for sowing Exhibition Onion seeds. I sow them at a distance from each other, based on my own experience. In my region (Kirov Oblast), I start sowing onions for seedlings around late February. This is because the optimal age of the seedling, ready for transplanting into open ground, should be at least 60 days + 10-14 days for germination. Sowing times may vary in your region.

Seedlings grow quickly. They require timely watering and pruning. I prune the young onion stalk to half its length, about two times throughout the growing season (if I prune it to a quarter, I repeat the process about three times). I use a seedling soluble fertilizer.

My Exhibition Onion seedlings are sent to the dacha in the second week of May - when the soil has warmed up somewhat. However, it may be later - there may be a prolonged spring, prolonged frosts, or even snow in May. Traditionally, I add carrots to the onion plantings - it really works against onion flies (cross-bred with carrot flies).

Young Exhibition Onion is tied with a spanbond on dugs for successful rooting. I can use plastic rings for protection against the marauding badger. The granules are more effective against the pest, although I don't like chemicals, but it is the most effective means of protecting delicate shoots.

Timely watering in dry periods, fertilization, weeding, and loosening - this is the main care for the wonder-onions.

Harvest:

The secret to growing large bulbs is to get involved with the seedlings in full program. For example: each future bulb should have its own container, additional lighting should be provided, and when transplanting, the roots should be handled as gently as possible.

Since I grow Exhibition Onion in a general container, even a spacious one, the roots are damaged during transplanting, which is a minus. I use additional lighting - but not excessively, not around the clock.

As a result of growing- my Exhibition Onion bulbs are quite modest in weight and size. However, they are no less tasty. I don't need to call a dump truck to collect the Exhibition Onion harvest)

Editor's Summary

Exhibition onions are a unique and flavorful variety that can be grown through seedlings. Despite the challenges, the author has found them to be worth the extra effort. With proper care and attention, these onions can thrive and provide a delicious harvest.

Featured FAQ

What is the Exhibition onion variety?The Exhibition onion is a unique and flavorful variety of onion that is known for its giant size and unusual shape.

How do I grow Exhibition onions through seedlings?To grow Exhibition onions through seedlings, start by sowing the seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Transplant the seedlings outside when they are 6-8 inches tall and the weather is warm.

What are the benefits of growing Exhibition onions?Exhibition onions are a great choice for gardeners who want to grow a unique and flavorful variety of onion. They are also relatively easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of conditions.

How do I care for Exhibition onions?To care for Exhibition onions, make sure to provide them with full sun and well-draining soil. Water them regularly, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to disease and other problems.

Can I grow Exhibition onions in containers?Yes, you can grow Exhibition onions in containers. Make sure the container is at least 6-8 inches deep and has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.

How long do Exhibition onions store?Exhibition onions typically store for 2-3 months when kept in a cool, dry place. They can be stored in a paper bag or breathable container to maintain their freshness.