Onion Seeds, Round Tropea

star-filled
4.7
3 Reviews
Sku:
#ON134
Min. seed count:
300
$3.00

Description

(Allium cepa). Famous in Italy as the Cipolla di Tropea, it is grown on the clay cliffs descending Mount Poro.  It was brought to Calabria by the Greeks, who discovered it via the Assyrians and Babylonians. The deep purple, rounded, and at times elongated, bulbs have an extraordinary sweetness and amazing delicate scent with a light and enjoyable taste. Much sought after by gourmet chefs, it can also be baked, boiled, and used as a filling for omelettes. In Tropea, it is also used to produce a delicious onion marmalade.

  • 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 Round Tropea onion is an Italian heirloom variety that grows best in full sun and well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. To support even development, water consistently and avoid letting the soil dry out completely. Using mulch around the plants to prevent weeds from competing for nutrients.

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. As an intermediate-day onion, it thrives in regions with day lengths of 12-14 hours.

How to Sow and Plant

Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting trays or sow directly into the soil after frost has passed. Maintain soil temperatures around 60 F for germination, which typically takes 7-14 days. Space plants 4-6 inches apart with 12 inches between rows to give room for the round bulbs to form.

How to Grow

Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer or compost tea every 2-3 weeks. Keep the soil consistently moist, but don’t overwater to prevent root rot. Keep the area weed-free and use mulch to improve water retention. As the bulbs mature and the tops 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

How do Round Tropea onions taste?
These onions are exceptionally sweet, making them ideal for fresh preparations like salads or for caramelizing in cooking.

Can I grow Round Tropea onions in containers?
Yes, their compact shape makes them suitable for container gardening, as long as the container is large enough and the soil nutrient-rich.

How long can Round Tropea onions be stored?
These onions can be stored for a few months but are best enjoyed fresh to capture their signature sweetness.

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, Round Tropea
star-filled
4.7
Customer reviews (3)

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