FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are Walking Onions?

Walking onions are a type of perennial onion that produces bulbils on top of their tall stalks. These bulbils eventually fall to the ground and root themselves, creating new plants. This unique characteristic is how they "walk" and spread across your garden year after year.

2. Can Walking Onions grow in containers or pots?

Yes! Walking onions are well-suited for container gardening. Just make sure the container has good drainage and that you plant them in a sunny spot. They also prefer well-drained soil, so be sure to use a quality potting mix.

3. What types of Walking Onions are available?

We offer multiple varieties of walking onions, including both red and white types. These varieties share similar growing habits but may have slight flavor or appearance differences. Each variety will grow in much the same way, with bulbils setting on top of the stalks.

4. Why do the bulbils fall off the stalks?

The bulbils fall off when they’re mature and heavy enough. This is a natural process that helps the walking onion “walk” and establish new plants. When they hit the ground, they take root, leading to the creation of new onion plants.

5. How long does it take for Walking Onions to mature?

Walking onions are typically slow-growing in their first year but will reach maturity in the second or third year, depending on growing conditions. You’ll start harvesting greens in the first year, and by the second or third year, the bulbs and bulbils will be ready for harvesting.

6. Can I harvest Walking Onion bulbils for planting and eating?

Yes! Walking onion bulbils are edible and can be used in cooking, similar to small onions or shallots. You can also save some of the bulbils to plant for the next season, ensuring your patch of walking onions keeps expanding.

7. How do I store Walking Onions?

Bulbs: Store in a cool, dry place, like a pantry, until you're ready to use them.
Greens: Keep fresh greens in the fridge for a few days or freeze them for longer storage.
Bulbils: Dry and store in a cool, dry place. If you plan to plant them, keep them in a dry container until the next planting season.

8. What are good companion plants for Walking Onions?

Walking Onions Growing with Strawberries as Companion Plants in the Garden

Walking onions grow well with other vegetables like lettuce, beets, carrots, and herbs. They can also help deter pests, like aphids, and will thrive in a mixed vegetable bed. Avoid planting them near beans or peas.

9. How do I troubleshoot problems with Walking Onions?

If your walking onions aren’t growing well, check for:

Watering: They don’t like soggy soil, so make sure the soil drains well.
Sunlight: Ensure they’re getting enough sunlight (at least 6 hours per day).
Pests: Check for pests like aphids or slugs, which may damage the plants.
Spacing: Crowded plants may struggle, so ensure proper spacing when planting.

10. How do I divide my mature Walking Onion plants?

Every 2–3 years, you can dig up your mature walking onions and divide them. Gently separate the bulbs and replant the largest, strongest ones. The smaller bulbs and any excess bulbils can be saved for future planting or eaten.

11. Can I grow Walking Onions indoors?

Yes, you can grow walking onions indoors, but they will need a lot of sunlight. Place them in a south-facing window or under a grow light. Make sure to water them regularly but avoid overwatering, as they do not like wet feet.

12. Do Walking Onions attract pollinators?

Yes, walking onions do attract pollinators, particularly bees, which help with pollination, especially when the plants bloom. This can be a great addition to your garden if you're looking to support local pollinators.

13. Are Walking Onions frost-hardy?

Walking Onion Plant Emerging Through the Snow in Winter Garden

Walking onions are relatively frost-hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C). They tend to go dormant in the winter and will begin to grow again once the weather warms up. However, if you live in an area with harsh winters, you might want to mulch heavily around them for extra protection.

14. How do I know when to harvest Walking Onion bulbils?

Bulbils are typically ready for harvest when they are dry and firm. You’ll notice they begin to fall off the stalks as they mature. If you’d like to save some for planting, make sure to collect them before they begin to sprout.

15. What is the difference between bulbils and bulbs?

Bulbils are the small, bulb-like growths that form on the top of the walking onion stalks. They can be planted to grow new walking onions.

Bulbs are the underground part of the plant that can be harvested and eaten. These can also be divided and replanted.

16. Can I use Walking Onions in place of regular onions in recipes?

Absolutely! Walking onions are versatile and can be used just like any other onion. The greens can be used in salads, soups, and stir-fries, and the bulbs can be roasted, pickled, or added to a variety of dishes. The flavor is milder than regular onions, making them a great substitute in many recipes.

17. Are Walking Onions good for beginners?

Yes! Walking onions are low-maintenance and easy to grow, making them perfect for beginners. They are hardy, drought-tolerant, and pest-resistant, and they don’t require much attention once established. If you’re new to gardening, they are a great plant to start with.

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