When to Harvest Candy Onions: A Guide for Gardeners

When To Harvest Candy Onions?

Candy onions are a type of sweet onion that is grown for their mild flavor and delicate texture. They are typically harvested in the late summer or early fall, when the bulbs are fully mature but still firm. Candy onions can be stored for several months, and they make a delicious addition to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes.

In this article, we will discuss the best time to harvest candy onions, how to store them, and how to use them in recipes. We will also provide some tips on how to grow your own candy onions.

So if you’re looking for a delicious and versatile onion to add to your garden, candy onions are a great option. Read on to learn more about how to grow, harvest, and store them.

Week	Days After Planting	Harvest Stage
1	10-14	Green sprouts
2	20-24	Small bulbs
3	30-34	Medium-sized bulbs
4	40-44	Large bulbs

When To Harvest Candy Onions?

Candy onions are a type of sweet onion that is harvested when they are fully mature. They are typically harvested in the late summer or early fall, when the skins have turned a dark brown or purple color and the bulbs are firm and heavy.

Signs of Maturity

There are a few signs that indicate when candy onions are ready to be harvested. These include:

• Size and shape: Candy onions should be about the size of a golf ball, with a round or oval shape.
• Color: The skins of candy onions should be a dark brown or purple color.
• Texture: The bulbs should be firm and hard, with a slight give when pressed.
• Hardiness: Candy onions should be hardy enough to withstand being stored for several months.

Ideal Harvest Time

The ideal time to harvest candy onions is when the weather is dry and cool. This will help to preserve the quality of the onions and prevent them from rotting. The best time of day to harvest candy onions is in the morning, before the sun has had a chance to heat up the soil.

Weather Conditions

The weather conditions can have a significant impact on the quality of candy onions. If the weather is too hot or humid, the onions may start to rot before they can be harvested. If the weather is too cold, the onions may not mature properly.

Time of Day

The time of day can also affect the quality of candy onions. Harvesting candy onions in the morning, before the sun has had a chance to heat up the soil, will help to preserve their flavor and texture.

Storage Considerations

Candy onions can be stored for several months if they are properly cured and stored. To cure candy onions, place them in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. The onions should be cured for at least two weeks before they are stored.

Once the onions are cured, they can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to six months. Candy onions can be stored in mesh bags, paper bags, or plastic containers.

Candy onions are a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. By following these tips, you can ensure that you harvest candy onions at their peak maturity and enjoy them for months to come.

Additional Resources

• [How to Harvest Candy Onions](https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/onions/harvest-candy-onions.htm)
• [Candy Onions: A Sweet Treat for Your Garden](https://www.thespruceeats.com/candy-onions-591497)
• [Curing and Storing Candy Onions](https://www.almanac.com/garden/vegetables/candy-onions)

3. Methods of Harvest

There are three main methods of harvesting candy onions: hand-picking, mechanical harvesting, and mulching.

Hand-picking is the most common method of harvesting candy onions. It is a labor-intensive process, but it allows for the careful selection of the best onions. To hand-pick candy onions, you will need to:

1. Wait until the onions are fully mature. Candy onions are ready to harvest when the skins have turned brown and the necks have begun to dry out.
2. Gently loosen the soil around the onions with a trowel or spade.
3. Grasp the onions firmly and pull them out of the ground.
4. Shake off any excess dirt and place the onions in a basket or bucket.

Mechanical harvesting is a faster and more efficient method of harvesting candy onions than hand-picking. It is typically used for large-scale operations. To mechanically harvest candy onions, you will need to:

1. Use a tractor-mounted onion harvester to dig up the onions.
2. Sort the onions by size and grade.
3. Pack the onions into boxes or crates for shipping.

Mulching is a method of harvesting candy onions that is used to protect the onions from frost damage. To mulch candy onions, you will need to:

1. Spread a layer of mulch (such as straw or hay) around the onions.
2. Cover the mulch with a layer of plastic sheeting.
3. Secure the plastic sheeting with stakes or rocks.

The mulch will help to insulate the onions and protect them from the cold. You can harvest the onions as soon as the weather warms up.

4. Storage and Preparation

Candy onions can be stored for several months if they are properly cured and stored. To cure candy onions, you will need to:

1. Place the onions in a cool, dry place with good air circulation.
2. Allow the onions to cure for at least two weeks.
3. Check the onions periodically and remove any that are starting to rot.

Once the onions are cured, you can store them in a cool, dry place for up to six months. To prepare candy onions for eating, you will need to:

1. Peel the onions.
2. Cut the onions into thin slices.
3. Add the onions to salads, soups, or stews.

Candy onions can also be pickled or preserved in vinegar.

Candy onions are a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They are easy to grow and harvest, and they can be stored for several months if they are properly cured and stored. Candy onions are a great addition to any home garden.

When should I harvest candy onions?

Candy onions are ready to harvest when the bulbs are firm and have reached their full size. The skins will be dry and papery, and the necks will be starting to turn yellow. You can also check for maturity by gently pulling on a leaf. If it comes out easily, the onion is ready to be harvested.

How do I harvest candy onions?

To harvest candy onions, carefully dig up the bulbs with a garden fork or spade. Be careful not to damage the bulbs. Once the bulbs are out of the ground, shake off the excess dirt and let them dry in a warm, sunny spot for a few days. Once the bulbs are dry, you can store them in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

How do I store candy onions?

Candy onions can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. To store them, place the bulbs in a paper bag or mesh bag and store them in a cool, dry place. You can also store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.

How do I use candy onions?

Candy onions can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be roasted, grilled, fried, or added to salads. They can also be used in soups, stews, and casseroles. Candy onions are a sweet and flavorful addition to any dish.

What are the benefits of eating candy onions?

Candy onions are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are also low in calories and fat. Eating candy onions can help to improve your heart health, reduce your risk of cancer, and boost your immune system.

Are candy onions safe to eat?

Yes, candy onions are safe to eat. They are a healthy and nutritious addition to your diet.

Candy onions are a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. When it comes to harvesting candy onions, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, candy onions are ready to harvest when the necks have started to turn yellow and the bulbs are firm. Second, it is important to harvest candy onions before the first frost, as frost can damage the bulbs. Third, candy onions can be harvested by hand or with a garden fork. Finally, candy onions should be stored in a cool, dry place.

By following these tips, you can enjoy fresh, delicious candy onions all season long.

Key Takeaways:

• Candy onions are ready to harvest when the necks have started to turn yellow and the bulbs are firm.
• Candy onions should be harvested before the first frost.
• Candy onions can be harvested by hand or with a garden fork.
• Candy onions should be stored in a cool, dry place.