Onion
allium cepa
Also known as: ["Common Onion","Garden Onion","Bulb Onion"]
Overview
A widely cultivated bulbous plant in the genus Allium, known for its edible bulb and culinary uses.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","culinary herb","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Allium |
| Botanical Name: | Allium cepa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Vegetables
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Well-draining.
- Soil Type: Loamy, fertile soil with good organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; after flowering or when foliage declines.
- Pruning Intensity: Light.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); adjust for intense summer heat with partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; provide shade during peak heat; avoid direct sun on young plants.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light; use shade cloth in summer; avoid drafty spots.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage disease; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay; ensure soil warms quickly in spring; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerate cold but not frost.
Protect from frost; avoid extreme heat; maintain consistent temps.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers; fertilize after watering to prevent burn.
Propagation
Methods
Seeds or bulb division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Plant bulbs 2–3 times their height deep.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring for seeds; late summer for bulb division.
Environment
Warm (65–70°F/18–21°C), bright indirect light, moderate humidity.
Medium
Well-draining seed-starting mix or sandy loam.
Hormone
Not required for seeds; optional for bulb division.
Timeline
Seeds: 2–3 months to germinate; bulbs: immediate growth.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, trowel, watering can, labels.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in groups; divide bulbs when overcrowded; thin seedlings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves or stalks at the base with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove yellowing leaves or spent flower stalks.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; cut at the base; remove only dead/damaged parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring before active growth.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure 2–3 inches of space around bulb.
Method
Gently lift bulbs; trim roots if crowded; replant in fresh soil with good drainage.
Suggestions
Not typically needed for bulbs; container-grown may need repotting every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check for pests; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone without waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure; incorporate perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing, stunted growth, or premature bolting.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause rot or fungal issues in wet conditions.
Solution: Use row covers; ensure good drainage; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Bolting, reduced bulb size, or leaf scorch.
Solution: Provide shade; water deeply; mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact; follow schedule.
Fertilizing Method
Balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growth; reduce in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicSimilar to dogs, onions are toxic to cats due to N-propyl disulfide, which induces oxidative damage to red blood cells, resulting in hemolytic anemia. Cats are particularly sensitive to onion toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicOnions are toxic to dogs due to the presence of N-propyl disulfide, which causes oxidative damage to red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia. This condition can be life-threatening if untreated.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAllium cepa, commonly known as the onion, contains organosulfur compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation and oxidative stress when consumed in excessive amounts. The physiological impact is generally limited to temporary discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is onion safe for human consumption?
A: Yes, onions are safe for human consumption when cooked or raw, but excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Q: Can onions be grown indoors?
A: Yes, onions can be grown indoors in containers, but they require ample sunlight and proper spacing.
Q: Are onions toxic to pets?
A: Yes, onions are toxic to dogs and cats and can cause hemolytic anemia if ingested.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
