Onion Seeds, Flat of Italy

star-filled
3.8
6 Reviews
Sku:
#ON104
Min. seed count:
300
$3.00

Description

(Allium cepa). Intermediate day. Beautiful red cipollini-type, flat gourmet onion from Italy.  It is bright red in color and very flat, perfect for fresh eating or cooking. This is a very old Italian variety that was mentioned by Vilmorin already back in 1885. A good choice for fresh market, and an early variety.

  • 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

Flat of Italy onions grow best in full sun, and require rich, well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during bulb development. Mulch with a straw to help retain soil moisture and reduce weed competition, as onions do not tolerate competition well.

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors three months before the last expected frost date in spring. Transplant acclimated, stocky seedlings into the garden 4-6 weeks before the last frost of spring, as onions can tolerate light frosts. This variety performs well in intermediate to long-day conditions, making it suitable for many regions.

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting trays filled with nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. Germination typically takes 7-14 days at around 60 F. When seedlings are 4-6 inches tall, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 4-6 inches apart with 12 inches between rows. Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting for even better results.

How to Grow

Flat of Italy onions are heavy feeders. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer or compost tea. Keep the soil evenly moist but be careful not to overwater. Remove weeds regularly. When the tops begin to yellow and fall over, stop watering and 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

How do Flat of Italy onions taste?
They have a mild, sweet flavor, making them ideal for raw dishes like salads, sandwiches, or light cooking.

How well do Flat of Italy onions store?
While they can be stored for a few months, they are best enjoyed fresh because of their delicate flavor and texture.

Can I grow Flat of Italy onions in containers?
Yes, they can be grown in deep containers with proper spacing and nutrient-rich soil to support bulb development.

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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Onion Seeds, Flat of Italy
star-filled
3.8
Customer reviews (6)

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