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Onion Seeds, Ailsa Craig
Description
(Allium cepa). Long day. Very well-known globe-shaped heirloom onion that reaches a really huge size—5 pounds is rather common! The skin is a pale yellow and the flesh is relatively mild and sweet, which is why it is recommended for fresh use—not a storage type. Introduced in 1887 by David Murray, gardener for the Marquis of Ailsa, at Culzean Castle in Maybole, South Ayrshire, Scotland.
- 100-120 days to maturity
- 6-12 hours of full sun
- Sprouts in 7-14 days
- Seed Depth: 1/4"
- Plant Spacing: 4-6"
- Ideal Temperature: 45-80 F
- Frost Hardy: Yes
Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs
Growing Tips
The Ailsa Craig onion thrives in full sun and requires rich, moist, well-draining soil. Mulching with a straw can help conserve moisture and suppress weeds, as onions do not tolerate competition. Water regularly, especially during bulb development. Consider interplanting onions with cabbage relatives, as the sulfur from the onions may help deter pests.
When to Grow
Start seeds indoors three months before the last expected frost date in spring. Onions begin slowly, so this early start allows for adequate growth before transplanting. Transplant acclimated, stocky seedlings into the garden 4-6 weeks before the last frost of spring, as onions can tolerate light frosts. Since Ailsa Craig is a long-day variety, it is perfect for growers north of the latitude of Saint Louis, Missouri (38.6 degrees N).
How to Sow and Plant
Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting trays and maintain a temperature of around 60 F for germination, which takes 7-14 days. Space seedlings 4-6 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart in the garden. Acclimate seedlings gradually before transplanting outdoors. Make sure that the soil is rich and well-draining to encourage healthy growth.
How to Grow
Feed onions with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks, as they are heavy feeders. Keep the area weed-free. Water regularly to keep consistent soil moisture but don’t waterlog. When the tops begin to yellow, reduce watering to prepare for harvest.
How to Save
- Onions will cross with other onions, and occasionally they will cross with scallion types like Welsh onions and Hi Shi Ko bunching onions. Onions will never cross with leeks, chives or garlic.
- If you are growing types that will cross, try to isolate varieties by at least several hundred feet or ideally up to one mile.
- Onions are a biennial seed crop, so you will need to overwinter your first-year roots, ideally by digging them up and storing them for the winter. Replant in early spring, and allow onions to shoot up spikes of purple flowers.
- Let seeds become dry on the plants. Pick seeds when they are hard and dark black, then bring them indoors to finish drying.
- Once dry, separate the seeds from the husks or leave them on and plant them husks and all.
FAQ
Can I grow Ailsa Craig onions in containers?
Yes, just make sure that the container is deep enough and allows adequate spacing.
What is the storage life of Ailsa Craig onions?
They are best used fresh due to their shorter storage capacity compared to other varieties; however, properly stored, they will last for 1-2 months.
Do Ailsa Craig onions cross-pollinate?
Onions will cross-pollinate with other onion varieties but not with leeks, chives, or garlic. Keep safe isolation distances if you plan to save the seeds.
How do I determine day length and first-last frost in my area?
Check out our blog post: Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources for links to online guides.
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