How To Plant Egyptian Walking Onions

Want to grow Egyptian walking onions but aren’t sure where to start? You’ll learn just how simple it is to enjoy a perpetual onion harvest with minimal effort. Let’s dive in

How to Plant Egyptian Walking Onions: Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing the Right Location for Your Walking Onions

To get the best results, pick a sunny spot in your garden where these unique onions can thrive for years. Egyptian walking onions love full sun, requiring at least six to eight hours of direct light daily to produce those quirky top sets.

They aren’t too picky about space, but ensure the area has good drainage because sitting in water can cause the bulbs to rot. Since they are perennial, choose a location where they won’t disturb your annual planting rotations.

They actually look quite ornamental, so feel free to place them near a garden border or pathway. Just remember, they will eventually ‘walk’ and drop new bulbs, so give them room to roam naturally without overcrowding your other prized veggies.

Preparing the Soil for Optimum Growth

These hardy plants aren’t overly fussy, but preparing the ground correctly ensures a bountiful harvest for seasons to come. Start by loosening the soil to about well-draining loam depth, allowing the roots to establish easily without hitting hardpan. Remove any weeds or large stones that might compete for nutrients.

While they tolerate poor soil, mixing in some organic compost or aged manure will give them a significant boost. You don’t need heavy fertilizers; a light, balanced approach works best. Ensure the soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral for optimal health. Once the bed is ready, rake it smooth.

This simple prep work helps the bulbs settle in comfortably and encourages strong, vigorous growth right from the start.

Planting the Top Sets vs. Bulblets

Planting is straightforward, but handling the different parts of the plant requires slightly different techniques. For the top sets, those small onion-like bulbs at the stem tip, simply push them into the soil about one to two inches deep with the pointy side up.

Space them a few inches apart to allow room for expansion. Alternatively, you can separate the bulblets from the main onion clump at the base and replant them individually. These bulblets are larger and will often mature faster than the top sets.

Water them gently after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Whether you use the top sets or the base bulbs, keep the soil consistently moist until you see green shoots poking through the ground.

When Is the Best Time to Plant Egyptian Walking Onions?

Planting in Fall for a Strong Spring Harvest

Fall is hands down the best time to plant Egyptian walking onions if you want a robust start. Planting sets in the autumn gives them a chance to establish strong roots before the ground freezes, ensuring they wake up ready to grow in spring.

Aim for about 6-8 weeks before your first hard frost to give them ample time to settle in. These hardy perennials don’t need much fuss—just tuck the sets into well-drained soil about an inch deep and space them a few inches apart.

The cool weather encourages root development without the stress of summer heat. By spring, you’ll notice vigorous green shoots, and your plants may even produce small bulbs earlier than those planted in spring. Fall planting mimics their natural cycle, giving them a head start for a bountiful harvest next year.

Spring Planting: What You Need to Know

If you missed the fall window, spring planting works well too, but keep a few things in mind. Wait until the soil is workable and frost danger has passed to ensure your sets don’t rot in cold, wet ground.

Spring-planted onions will focus on leafy growth first and may not produce topsets until late summer or the following year. This means a smaller harvest initially, but they’ll catch up over time. Plant them in a sunny spot with nutrient-rich soil, and keep them evenly watered as they establish.

While they might not grow as quickly as their fall-planted counterparts, they’ll still thrive with a little patience. Just remember to mulch around them to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Spring is also a great time to transplant any wandering bulbils that ‘walked’ too far from the main patch.

Understanding Your Hardiness Zone for Timing

Your hardiness zone plays a big role in deciding when to plant Egyptian walking onions. In colder zones (3-6), fall planting is ideal because the plants need the winter dormancy period to trigger proper growth.

In warmer zones (7-9), you can plant in late fall or even early winter, as the ground rarely freezes solid. If you’re in a mild climate, spring planting might actually be safer to avoid premature sprouting during winter warm spells.

Always check your local frost dates to time it right—fall planting should happen before the ground hardens, while spring planting requires the soil to warm up slightly.

These onions are incredibly adaptable, but aligning your planting schedule with your zone’s climate ensures they establish quickly and produce reliably year after year.

Essential Care Tips for Growing Walking Onions

Watering Requirements and Schedule

When you first plant Egyptian walking onions, keeping the soil consistently moist is crucial for strong root establishment. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or manual watering.

Once established, these hardy plants are quite drought-tolerant, but they thrive best with regular hydration, especially during dry spells. Water deeply at the base of the plants to encourage roots to grow downward rather than staying shallow.

A simple trick is to check the top inch of soil; if it feels dry, it’s time to water. Early morning is the ideal time to water, allowing leaves to dry out and reducing disease risk. Consistency is key, so set a schedule if rain is scarce.

Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to rot. With proper watering, your walking onions will develop robust bulbs and flavorful tops.

Mulching to Retain Moisture and Suppress Weeds

Mulching is a game-changer for growing healthy walking onions with minimal effort. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as straw, shredded leaves, or grass clippings, around the base of the plants.

This layer helps retain soil moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering, especially during hot summer months. Mulch also acts as a natural weed barrier, blocking sunlight and preventing unwanted competition for nutrients.

As the mulch breaks down, it enriches the soil with organic matter, improving drainage and fertility over time. Be sure to keep mulch a few inches away from the onion stems to prevent rot. Replenish the mulch layer annually to maintain its benefits.

This simple step not only saves time on maintenance but also creates a stable environment for your walking onions to flourish.

Fertilizing Egyptian Walking Onions Naturally

Walking onions are low-maintenance, but a little natural fertilization can boost their growth and yield. Start by working compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting to provide a nutrient-rich foundation.

During the growing season, side-dress the plants with a balanced organic fertilizer or a thin layer of compost every 4-6 weeks. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can encourage excessive leaf growth at the expense of bulb development.

Instead, opt for options rich in phosphorus and potassium, like bone meal or kelp meal, to support strong roots and bulb formation. If your soil is poor, a foliar spray of seaweed extract can give plants a quick nutrient boost.

Always water after applying fertilizer to help nutrients reach the roots. With these natural feeding methods, your walking onions will thrive and produce bountiful harvests year after year.

How to Propagate Walking Onions from Top Sets

Allowing the Tops to Bend and Plant Themselves

The easiest way to propagate Egyptian walking onions is to let nature do the work. These onions get their name because the top sets, or small bulbils, weigh down the stems until they bend to the ground. Once they touch the soil, the bulbils take root and grow new plants.

All you need to do is ensure good soil contact by lightly pressing the top sets into the dirt if needed. This hands-off method is perfect for gardeners who want low-maintenance propagation. Over time, the onions will ‘walk’ across your garden, creating a self-sustaining patch.

Just make sure to leave a few stems undisturbed each season to keep the cycle going. It’s a fun and effortless way to expand your onion crop!

Harvesting and Replanting Bulbils Manually

If you prefer more control, you can harvest the top sets and replant them manually. Wait until the bulbils are about the size of a marble and the stems have dried. Gently pluck them from the stalk and store in a cool, dry place until planting.

Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil and plant the bulbils 1-2 inches deep, spacing them 4-6 inches apart. Water lightly after planting. This method lets you start new onion beds exactly where you want them.

It’s also a great way to share top sets with friends or expand your garden without waiting for the onions to ‘walk’ on their own.

Dividing the Main Onion Clump

Another way to propagate Egyptian walking onions is by dividing the main clump. Every few years, dig up the parent plant and gently separate the smaller bulbs growing at the base. Each divided bulb can be replanted to grow into a new onion plant.

This method is ideal for rejuvenating overcrowded beds and ensuring healthy growth. Replant the divisions in fertile soil, keeping them spaced about 6 inches apart. Water well and watch them thrive. Dividing is a quick way to multiply your onions, especially if the original clump has become too dense.

Plus, it gives you a chance to refresh the soil and remove any dead or damaged parts for better productivity.

Harvesting Egyptian Walking Onions: Which Parts Can You Eat?

Harvesting the Greens (Scallions)

To get started with Egyptian walking onions, harvest the greens just like regular scallions. Snip them about an inch above the soil, and they’ll regrow for a continuous supply. These greens have a mild onion flavor, perfect for salads, soups, or garnishes.

If you’re wondering how to plant Egyptian walking onions, simply let some greens mature until they produce top sets—small bulbs at the stem tips. These will naturally bend and plant themselves, but you can also collect the top sets and plant them directly in the soil or pots.

Space them a few inches apart, cover lightly, and water gently. Within weeks, you’ll see new shoots. This low-maintenance method ensures a steady harvest of fresh greens year after year without much effort.

Digging Up the Base Bulbs for Kitchen Use

The base bulbs of Egyptian walking onions are edible and work like shallots or small onions. Once the greens die back, gently dig up the bulbs with a garden fork. Avoid damaging them, as they store well in a cool, dry place.

These bulbs add a stronger onion kick to dishes, ideal for roasting or pickling. To grow more, replant some of the bulbs immediately. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil, bury them about an inch deep, and space them 3-4 inches apart. Water regularly but don’t overwater.

This method expands your patch quickly, giving you a dual harvest—greens now, bulbs later. It’s a simple way to keep your kitchen stocked with homegrown onions.

Using the Top Sets in Cooking

The top sets—tiny onions at the stem tips—are versatile in the kitchen. Use them like pearl onions in stews, or pickle them for a tangy snack. Their flavor is milder than the base bulbs, making them great for roasting whole.

To grow more, just plant the top sets in fall or early spring. Poke holes 1-2 inches deep in loose soil, drop them in, and cover lightly. Water sparingly until sprouts appear. These sets will root and produce new plants, continuing the cycle.

This self-propagating feature is why they’re called ‘walking’ onions—they’ll bend over and replant themselves! Whether you harvest them for cooking or let them grow, top sets are a key part of enjoying this unique plant.

Common Pests and Diseases Affecting Egyptian Walking Onions

Identifying and Treating Onion Thrips

Onion thrips are tiny, slender insects that suck sap from your Egyptian walking onion leaves, causing silvery streaks and stunted growth. To spot them, shake the plant over a white sheet of paper and look for moving specks.

Since thrips thrive in dry conditions, regular watering can help reduce their numbers. For minor infestations, a strong spray of water from a hose can knock them off. If the problem persists, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, ensuring you coat the undersides of the leaves where thrips hide.

Avoid using broad-spectrum pesticides, as they can harm beneficial insects. Keep your garden free of weeds to eliminate hiding spots. Thrips can overwinter in plant debris, so clear your onion patch at the end of the season.

Early detection is key—check your plants weekly, especially during hot, dry spells, to prevent severe damage.

Preventing Onion Downy Mildew

Downy mildew is a fungal disease that thrives in cool, damp conditions, appearing as pale green or yellow patches on onion leaves that later turn purplish-brown. To prevent it, ensure proper spacing between plants to improve air circulation and reduce humidity.

Water your onions early in the day, directing moisture to the soil rather than the foliage, to keep leaves dry. Avoid overhead watering, as wet leaves create an ideal environment for mildew spores. If you notice infected plants, remove them immediately to prevent spread.

Crop rotation is also effective—avoid planting onions in the same spot for at least three years. Consider using resistant varieties and applying a copper-based fungicide as a preventative measure during humid weather. Mulching with straw can help regulate soil moisture and reduce splashing spores.

Regularly inspect your plants, especially after rainy periods, to catch symptoms early.

Keeping Wildlife Away from Your Onion Patch

While Egyptian walking onions are generally low-maintenance, wildlife like rabbits, deer, and groundhogs may nibble on the greens or dig up the bulbs. To deter them, install a sturdy fence around your garden, burying it a few inches underground to prevent digging.

For smaller pests like squirrels, consider using wire mesh or chicken wire. Natural repellents, such as garlic or pepper sprays, can also be effective when applied regularly. Planting strong-smelling herbs like mint or marigolds nearby may help mask the onion scent and discourage browsing.

If wildlife is persistent, try motion-activated sprinklers or ultrasonic devices for added protection. Covering young plants with row covers can also provide a physical barrier while allowing sunlight and water to reach them. Remember to check your fences often for holes or weak spots.

Consistent monitoring and these simple barriers can keep your onion patch safe from hungry visitors.

Companion Planting and Storing Your Egyptian Walking Onions

Best Companion Plants for Walking Onions

Egyptian walking onions thrive when paired with leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, or Swiss chard, as these shallow-rooted plants won’t compete for space. You can also plant carrots nearby—their strong scent repels onion pests like onion flies.

Herbs such as chamomile and sage improve soil health and deter harmful insects, making them excellent companions. For a dynamic garden bed, interplant walking onions with tomatoes; the onions’ pungent aroma keeps aphids at bay, while tomatoes provide shade to keep the soil cool.

Just remember to give each plant enough room to grow—about 4-6 inches apart for walking onions. This partnership boosts yields and creates a pest-resistant, low-maintenance garden. With these pairings, your walking onions will flourish while supporting neighboring plants.

Plants to Avoid Near Your Onion Patch

Keep your Egyptian walking onions away from beans and peas, as these legumes can inhibit onion growth and vice versa due to incompatible nutrient needs. Avoid planting them near asparagus—both crops compete for similar nutrients, reducing overall vigor.

Brassicas like cabbage, broccoli, or kale are also poor companions since they attract similar pests, such as aphids, which can quickly spread. Onions’ strong scent can stunt the growth of parsley, so it’s best to separate them. Instead, group onions with plants that have complementary needs, like those listed above.

Planning your garden layout carefully ensures every plant thrives without unnecessary competition. By steering clear of these incompatible pairings, you’ll create a healthier, more productive garden ecosystem for your walking onions.

Curing and Storing Harvested Bulbs

After harvesting Egyptian walking onions, cure the bulbs in a warm, dry spot with good airflow for 2-3 weeks. Lay them out in a single layer, avoiding direct sunlight, which can cause spoilage.

Once the outer skins are papery and the roots are dry, trim the tops to 1-2 inches above the bulb. Store cured bulbs in a cool, dark place like a basement or pantry, ideally at 35-40°F. Use breathable mesh bags or cardboard boxes to prevent moisture buildup.

Properly cured bulbs can last up to 6 months, but smaller topsets are best replanted or used fresh. Avoid storing onions near potatoes—their gases can accelerate spoilage. With these simple steps, you’ll enjoy your homegrown walking onions long after harvest!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

These perennial onions propagate themselves, providing a continuous harvest of tops and bulbs. They’re hardy, low-maintenance, and perfect for any garden. Start growing your Egyptian walking onions today and enjoy their unique, self-sustaining nature!