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Growing Walking Onions

Growing Egyptian Walking Onions: A Step by Step Guide

Egyptian Walking Onions (Allium x proliferum), also known as tree onions, winter onions or top set onions are a hardy perennial plant that produces small clusters or bulbs, or bulbils, at the top of the stalk. These unique onions are known for their ability to "walk" across the garden, as the topsets fall over and root themselves, creating a new plant. Here's how to grow them successfully:

1. Choosing the Right Location

  • Sunlight: Egyptian Walking Onions thrive in full sun, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
  • Soil: They prefer well drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with compost to improve fertility and drainage. 

2. Planting

  • When to Plant: Plant the bulbils in early spring or fall. Fall planting gives them a head start for the following growing season.
  • How to Plant: Plant the bulbils about 1 to 2 inches deep and 6 inches apart in rows. The rows should be spaced about 12 to 18 inches apart.

3. Watering

  • Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water them deeply once a week, more frequently during dry spells.

4. Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 formula in early spring. Follow the package instructions for the appropriate amount. Supplement with compost or well rotted manure.

5. Mulching

  • Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. 

6. Maintenance

  • Weeding: Keep the area around the onions weed free to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
  • Staking: Tall stalks can be supported with stakes to prevent them from falling over prematurely. 

7. Harvesting

  • Bulbils: Harvest the bulbils in late summer or fall when the topsets have formed and the stalks start to bend.
  • Green Onions: The green shoots can be harvested anytime for fresh use, similar to scallions.
  • Underground Bulbs: Dig up the underground bulbs in late fall or early spring, before new growth starts.

8. Propagating

  • Allow some topsets to fall naturally or manually plant them to propagate new plants. This ensures a continuous supply of onions.

9. Pest and Disease Management

  • Egyptian Walking Onions are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but watch out for onion maggots and fungal diseases. Use organic insecticides and ensure good air circulation to minimize these issues.

 10. Overwintering

  • In colder climates, mulch heavily around the plants to protect them from freezing temperatures. They are quite hardy but benefit from extra protection.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a continual harvest of Egyptian Walking Onions, an easy to grow, low maintenance addition to your garden.

 

Culinary Uses for Egyptian Walking Onions

Egyptian Walking Onions are incredibly versatile in the kitchen, with different parts of the plant offering unique flavors and uses. Here are some ways to incorporate them into your cooking:

1. Bulbils (Topsets)

  • Flavor: Pungent, similar to traditional onions but often more intense.
  • Uses:

Pickling: Pickle the bulbils for a tangy, crunchy addition to sandwiches and salads.

Roasting: Roast them whole with vegetables or meats for a flavorful side dish.

Stir Fries: Add chopped bulbils to stir fries for a burst of onion flavor.

Seasoning: Use minced bulbils in place of regular onions in soups, stews, and casseroles. 

2. Green Shoots (Scallions)

  • Flavor: Mild, similar to scallions or green onions. 
  • Uses:          

Salads: Chop and sprinkle over salads for a fresh, mild onion flavor.

Garnish: Use as a garnish for soups, baked potatoes, and main dishes.

Omelets and Scrambles: Incorporate into egg dishes for added flavor and texture.

Pesto: Blend with herbs, nuts, and oil to make a unique onion flavored pesto.                                               

     3. Underground Bulbs

    • Flavor: Strong, similar to traditional onions, with a bit more sweetness.
    • Uses:

    Soups and Stews: Use as a base flavor in soups, stews, and broths. 

    Caramelizing: Caramelize the bulbs for a sweet and savory topping for burgers, steaks, and sandwiches.

    Grilling: Grill the bulbs alongside meats and vegetables for a smoky, savory side.

    Pickling: Pickle the bulbs for a tangy condiment.

    4. Flower Stalks

    • Flavor: Mild onion flavor, tender when young.
    • Uses:

    Stir-Fries: Chop and add to stir-fries for a mild onion flavor.

    Sautéing: Sauté with garlic and olive oil as a side dish or addition to pasta 

    Soups: Add chopped flower stalks to soups for extra flavor and texture

     

    Preservation Tips

    • Drying: Dry the bulbils or green shoots for later use as a seasoning
    • Freezing: Chop and freeze the green shoots or underground bulbs for convenient use in cooking
    • Pickling: Preserve the bulbils and underground bulbs by pickling them, extending their shelf life and adding a unique flavor.

    By using all parts of the Egyptian Walking Onion, you can add depth and variety to your culinary repertoire while making the most of this unique and flavorful plant.

    Egyptian Walking Onions have a history that is somewhat shrouded in mystery, but they are believed to have been around for several centuries. Here are a few key points regarding their history and origin:

    1. Ancient Cultivation: The exact origins of Egyptian Walking Onions are not well documented, but they have been cultivated for hundreds of years. They are often associated with ancient agricultural practices.
    2. Name Origin: Despite their name, they are not directly linked to Egypt. The "Egyptian" part of their name is thought to have come from the fact that they were brought to the United States by European settlers who had connections to the Middle East, including Egypt. However, the exact pathway of their introduction is unclear.
    3. Historical Records: Historical records suggest that these onions have been known in Europe and Asia for a long time, they were likely spread through trade routes and migration.
    4. Survival and Propagation: Their ability to propagate themselves by forming bulbils that fall and root easily made them a reliable and self sustaining crop which contributed to their longevity and widespread cultivation.

    In summary, while the precise timeline of Egyptian Walking Onions is now well documented, it is clear that they have been cultivated and valued for their unique growth habits and culinary uses for many centuries. 

    Egyptian Walking Onions are hardy and adaptable, thriving in a wide range of growing conditions. They are best suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9. Here is a breakdown of what makes these zones ideal:

    USDA Hardiness Zones 3-9

    1. Zone 3 (Minimum Temperatures: -40 degrees F to -30 degrees F)

    • Characteristics: Very cold winters, short growing season.
    • Suitability: Egyptian Walking Onions are extremely cold hardy and can survive harsh winter temperatures. Mulching heavily can provide additional protection.

    2. Zone 4 (Minimum Temperatures: -30 degrees F to -20 degrees F)

    • Characteristics: Cold winters, relatively short growing season.
    • Suitability: Ideal for these onions with a bit of winter protection, they will emerge early in the spring.

    3. Zone 5 (Minimum Temperatures: -20 degrees F to -10 degrees F)

    • Characteristics: Cold winters, moderate growing season.
    • Suitability: These onions thrive well and can be planted in both fall and spring.

    4. Zone 6 (Minimum Temperatures: -10 degrees F to 0 degrees F)

    • Characteristics: Mild to moderate winters, longer growing season.
    • Suitability: Very suitable for Egyptian Walking Onions; they grow vigorously and can be planted in both fall and spring.

    5. Zone 7 (Minimum Temperatures: 0 degrees F to 10 degrees F)

    • Characteristics: Mild winters, long growing season.
    • Suitability: Excellent growth and minimal winter protection needed; can produce year round in some conditions.

    6. Zone 8 (Minimum Temperatures: 10 degrees F to 20 degrees F)

    • Characteristics: Mild winters, very long growing season.
    • Suitability: Ideal conditions for continuous growth, allowing for multiple harvests throughout the year.

    7. Zone 9 (Minimum Temperatures: 20 degrees F to 30 degrees F)

    • Characteristics: Very mild winters, almost year round growing season.
    • Suitability: Perfect for Egyptian Walking Onions; they can grow nearly year round and propagate easily.

    Considerations for ALL ZONES

    • Mulching: Applying mulch in colder zones can protect the bulbs during winter.
    • Watering: Ensure consistent moisture, especially in hotter zones.
    • Sunlight: Full sun is best, providing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
    • Soil: Well drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal.

    By choosing the right planting time and providing appropriate care, Egyptian Walking Onions can thrive in a variety of climates within these zones.

    Unique Characteristics:

    What makes Egyptian Walking Onions unique:

    • Self Propagating Nature: Their low maintenance nature is further enhanced by their ability to self propagate through bulbils that form at the top of their tall stalks. These bulbils eventually bend to the ground, take root, and grow into new plants, giving rise to the plant's nickname, "walking onions." This unique propagation method means gardeners can enjoy a continuous supply of onions without the need for frequent seed sowing or transplanting.
    • Perennial Growth: Egyptian Walking Onions are prized for their low maintenance qualities in the garden, making them an ideal choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. As a perennial plant, they require minimal care once established, returning year after year without needing to be replanted annually. This characteristics not only saves time and effort but also ensures a reliable harvest season after season.

    Common Plants for Egyptian Walking Onions

    Companion Planting involves growing different plants together to enhance growth, deter pests, and improve soil health. Egyptian Walking Onions benefit from several companions:

    1. Carrots: Onions help repel carrot flies, a common pest for carrots. In return, carrots can improve the soil structure.
    2. Beets: Both plants thrive in similar soil conditions and don't compete for nutrients. Onions can help deter pests that commonly affect beets.
    3. Lettuce: Lettuce has shallow roots and grows quickly, making it a good companion that doesn't compete for nutrients. It also benefits from the pest repelling properties of onions.
    4. Tomatoes: Onions can help repel aphids, a common pest for tomatoes. They also benefit from the shade provided by taller tomato plants.
    5. Strawberries: Onions can help repel pests like slugs and aphids, which commonly affect strawberries.
    6. Chamomile: Chamomile can improve the flavor of onions and attract beneficial insects that help with pollination and pest control.
    7. Cabbage Family (Broccoli, Cabbage, Kale): Onions can help deter cabbage moths and other pests that commonly affect the cabbage family.

      Plants to Avoid

      • Beans and Peas: They can stunt the growth of onions and compete for the same nutrients.
      • Sage: This herb doesn't grow well with onions and can inhibit their growth.

      By choosing the right companions, you can create a more productive and pest resistant garden environment for your Egyptian Walking Onions.