How To Grow Scallions (Updated January 2nd)

Growing scallions is simple and rewarding, whether from seeds or scraps. Ensure they get plenty of sunlight, well-draining soil, and regular watering for best results. You can harvest them at any stage, making them versatile for quick meals. With minimal effort, you’ll enjoy a steady supply of fresh, flavorful greens. Start your scallion garden today and elevate your cooking with homegrown produce—your taste buds will thank you

How to Grow Scallions from Seeds Indoors

Choosing the Right Scallion Variety for Your Climate

Picking the right scallion variety is the first step toward a thriving indoor garden. If you live in a cooler climate, look for hardy varieties like ‘White Lisbon’ or ‘Evergreen Hardy,’ which tolerate lower temperatures and slower growth.

For warmer climates, heat-tolerant options like ‘Tokyo Long White’ or ‘Red Baron’ perform better without bolting quickly. Consider your space too—compact varieties like ‘Purplette’ are perfect for smaller indoor setups. Always check seed packets for maturity dates and growth habits to ensure they align with your local conditions.

Some scallions are perennials, meaning they’ll regrow year after year with proper care, while others are annuals. Don’t forget to taste-test different varieties; some have a milder flavor, while others pack a punch. Starting with the right seeds saves time and frustration, setting you up for a bountiful harvest.

Step-by-Step Guide to Sowing Scallion Seeds

Start by filling shallow seed trays or small pots with seed-starting mix, which is light and fluffy, helping tiny roots grow easily. Sprinkle seeds thinly over the surface, about ¼ inch apart, and gently press them into the soil.

Scallion seeds need darkness to germinate, so cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite. Mist the soil with water to keep it consistently moist but not soggy—too much water can cause rot.

Place the tray in a warm spot, ideally 65–75°F, and cover it with plastic wrap to retain humidity. Seeds should sprout in 7–14 days. Once they emerge, remove the plastic and move them to a sunny windowsill or under grow lights.

Thin seedlings to 2 inches apart to give them room to grow strong, healthy stalks.

Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors

Before moving your scallions outside, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7–10 days. Start with a few hours in a shaded spot and slowly increase sunlight and time outdoors. This prevents shock and helps them adjust to wind, temperature changes, and direct sun.

Choose a sunny, well-draining spot in your garden with fertile soil. Dig small holes about 1–2 inches deep and space seedlings 4–6 inches apart. Gently firm the soil around the roots and water thoroughly to settle them in. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Keep the soil evenly moist as they establish, and watch for pests like aphids. With care, your indoor-started scallions will thrive outdoors, giving you a crisp, flavorful harvest in weeks.

How to Grow Scallions from Kitchen Scraps

Regrowing Scallions in Water

Regrowing scallions from scraps is easy and rewarding! Start by saving the white roots from store-bought scallions, leaving about an inch of the green stalk intact. Place them in a small jar with enough water to cover the roots, but not the entire stalk.

Set the jar on a sunny windowsill, changing the water every few days to keep it fresh. Within a week, you’ll notice new green shoots emerging. This method is perfect for quick regrowth and works well for small kitchen experiments.

Once the shoots are 4-6 inches tall, you can trim them for use in recipes. Just keep replenishing the water, and your scallions will keep growing for weeks. It’s a zero-waste way to enjoy fresh greens without buying new bunches!

Planting Scallion Roots in Soil

For longer-lasting scallions, transplant the rooted scraps into soil. Prepare a pot or garden bed with well-draining soil and make small holes about 1-2 inches deep. Gently plant the roots, ensuring the white parts are buried but the green shoots remain above ground.

Water lightly and place the pot in a spot with partial to full sunlight. Soil-grown scallions develop stronger roots and produce thicker stalks compared to water-only methods. Within a few weeks, they’ll be ready for harvest. This approach is ideal if you want a steady supply of scallions for cooking.

You can even plant multiple roots in the same container for a larger yield. Just remember to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and you’ll have a thriving scallion patch in no time!

Caring for Regrown Scallions

Caring for your regrown scallions ensures they stay healthy and productive. Water them regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but avoiding soggy conditions. If grown in pots, ensure drainage holes prevent water buildup. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer to encourage robust growth.

Trim the green stalks as needed, leaving at least an inch of growth above the soil to allow regeneration. If the scallions flower, pinch off the blooms to direct energy back into stalk production. For indoor plants, rotate the pot occasionally for even sunlight exposure.

With minimal care, your scallions will keep providing fresh, flavorful greens for months. Whether in water or soil, these resilient plants are a low-maintenance addition to any kitchen garden!

Best Soil Conditions for Thriving Scallions

Ideal pH Levels and Soil Texture

Scallions thrive in loose, well-draining soil that allows their roots to spread easily without obstruction. Aim for a sandy loam texture, as it retains just enough moisture while preventing waterlogging, which can rot the bulbs.

Testing your soil’s pH is also crucial; scallions prefer a slightly acidic to neutral range between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too acidic, add lime to balance it, or if it’s too alkaline, incorporate sulfur.

Avoid heavy clay soils that compact easily, as these make it difficult for young shoots to push through. Prepare your planting area by loosening the soil to a depth of at least 6-8 inches, removing any rocks or debris that could hinder growth.

This simple step ensures your scallions have the foundation they need to develop strong, flavorful stalks throughout the season.

Adding Organic Matter and Compost

Boosting your soil with organic matter is one of the best ways to grow healthy scallions. Work in well-rotted compost or aged manure before planting to improve soil structure and fertility. This addition slowly releases essential nutrients like nitrogen, which scallions love for leafy growth.

A 2-3 inch layer of compost mixed into the topsoil works wonders, especially if your soil is sandy or lacking in nutrients. Organic matter also improves water retention, keeping the soil evenly moist without becoming soggy—key for tender scallions. Avoid fresh manure, as it can burn young plants.

For an extra boost, consider adding a balanced organic fertilizer at planting time. Regularly top-dressing with compost during the growing season keeps your scallions well-fed, ensuring a continuous harvest of crisp, vibrant stalks.

Using Containers vs. Garden Beds

Scallions are versatile and grow well in both containers and garden beds, offering flexibility based on your space. Container gardening is perfect for small spaces or patios, allowing you to control soil quality more easily.

Use pots at least 6 inches deep with drainage holes and fill them with a high-quality potting mix. This method reduces weed competition and makes harvesting simple. On the other hand, garden beds provide more room for extensive planting and allow scallions to develop deeper root systems.

If planting in beds, ensure proper spacing (about 2 inches apart) to prevent overcrowding. Both methods require full sun and consistent watering, but containers may dry out faster. Choose the approach that fits your lifestyle—containers for convenience or beds for larger harvests—and enjoy homegrown scallions with minimal effort.

Watering and Sunlight Requirements

How Often to Water Scallions

Scallions thrive with consistent moisture, so aim to water them about once or twice a week, depending on your soil and climate. Check the top inch of soil—if it feels dry, it’s time to water.

Pour water gently at the base of the plants to avoid disturbing the roots or washing away soil. Mulching around your scallions can help retain moisture and reduce evaporation, keeping the soil evenly damp. During hotter months, you might need to water more frequently, while rainy periods may require less.

Remember, scallions have shallow roots, so they dry out faster than deeper-rooted plants. Keeping a steady watering schedule will encourage tender, flavorful stalks instead of tough, fibrous ones. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely between waterings, as this can stunt growth or make the scallions overly pungent.

A little attention goes a long way in ensuring a bountiful harvest.

Providing Adequate Sunlight for Optimal Growth

Scallions love full sun and need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow strong and healthy. If you’re planting them outdoors, choose a sunny spot in your garden or a south-facing windowsill for indoor pots.

While they can tolerate partial shade, too little sunlight may result in weak, spindly stalks. If you’re growing scallions indoors, rotate the pot occasionally to ensure even exposure to light. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade can prevent scorching, but overall, prioritize bright, consistent light.

For indoor growers, consider using grow lights if natural sunlight is limited, especially during winter months. Proper sunlight not only boosts growth but also enhances the flavor of your scallions. Whether in a garden or on a windowsill, giving them enough light is key to a successful crop.

A little planning here will reward you with vibrant, tasty scallions.

Signs of Overwatering or Underwatering

Watch for yellowing leaves or limp stalks, which often indicate overwatering. If the soil feels waterlogged or smells foul, reduce watering frequency to prevent root rot. On the flip side, underwatered scallions may have dry, brittle tips or wilted leaves that don’t perk up after watering.

The soil will also pull away from the edges of the pot or appear cracked and dusty. Adjust your watering routine based on these cues—scallions prefer evenly moist, well-draining soil. Overwatering can also attract pests like fungus gnats, while underwatering makes the plants more prone to bolting (flowering prematurely).

Striking the right balance takes practice, so check your plants daily. Healthy scallions should have upright, vibrant green stalks and firm bulbs. By staying observant, you can catch issues early and keep your scallions thriving. Small adjustments to your watering habits can make a big difference in their overall health.

Fertilizing Scallions for a Bountiful Harvest

Choosing the Right Fertilizer

To grow scallions successfully, start by picking a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy leaf growth. Since scallions are grown for their green tops rather than large bulbs, a nitrogen-rich fertilizer works wonders.

Look for a balanced option with an NPK ratio like 10-10-10 or an organic choice such as fish emulsion, which releases nutrients slowly. Compost or well-rotted manure also adds essential organic matter to the soil, improving drainage and texture.

Avoid heavy phosphorus or potassium formulas meant for flowering plants; focus on nitrogen for lush, vibrant stalks. Always test your soil first to understand its current nutrient levels, ensuring you don’t over-fertilize. A simple soil test kit can save time and money while preventing nutrient imbalances that stunt growth.

Choosing the right foundation ensures your scallions have everything they need to thrive from seed to harvest.

When and How to Apply Fertilizer

Timing is everything when feeding scallions. Mix a slow-release fertilizer or compost into the soil before planting to give seedlings a strong start. Once your scallions are about 4-6 inches tall, apply a side-dressing of nitrogen-rich fertilizer to boost continued growth.

Sprinkle the fertilizer along the row, about 2-3 inches away from the plants, and gently work it into the top inch of soil to avoid damaging shallow roots. Water thoroughly after feeding to help nutrients reach the root zone effectively.

For container-grown scallions, use a liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength every 3-4 weeks. Avoid overfeeding, as this can cause excessive foliage with weak flavor. Consistent, light applications work better than one heavy dose, keeping your plants steadily growing without burning delicate roots.

Common Nutrient Deficiencies to Watch For

Keep an eye on your scallions for signs they’re missing key nutrients. Yellowing leaves often signal a nitrogen shortage, which stunts growth and fades the vibrant green color. If the tips turn brown or look scorched, your soil might lack potassium, affecting overall plant vigor.

Pale or light-green foliage can indicate an iron deficiency, especially in alkaline soils. Address nitrogen issues quickly with a liquid fish emulsion or blood meal, applying it directly to the soil around the base of the plants.

For potassium or iron shortages, consider adding a balanced organic fertilizer or a specialized micronutrient spray. Regularly inspecting your crop ensures you catch problems early before they impact the harvest.

Healthy scallions should grow upright with crisp, dark green stalks, so any noticeable change in color or texture is a clue to adjust your feeding routine.

How to Harvest Scallions Correctly

When to Pick Scallions for Maximum Flavor

Timing is everything when it comes to harvesting scallions for the best taste. You should pick them when the green shoots are about 6 to 8 inches tall, ensuring they are thick enough to add a nice crunch to your dishes.

The ideal window is before the plant starts forming a bulb, as this keeps the flavor mild and sweet rather than overpowering. Check the leaves; they should be vibrant green and upright, not wilting or yellowing.

Early morning is the best time to harvest, as the plants are hydrated and full of moisture, which locks in freshness. Regularly snipping a few leaves also encourages new growth, giving you a steady supply throughout the season.

If you wait too long, the texture may become tough, and the flavor can turn harsh, so keep an eye on their size and harvest promptly for peak flavor.

Techniques for Harvesting Without Killing the Plant

Harvesting scallions without killing the plant is easy with the right approach. Instead of pulling the entire plant out, use sharp scissors or garden shears to snip the green leaves about 1 to 2 inches above the soil line.

This method allows the root system to remain intact, so the scallions can regrow for multiple harvests. If you prefer the whole plant, gently loosen the soil around the base with a small trowel to avoid damaging neighboring roots.

Pull the scallion straight up carefully, ensuring the white bulb stays intact. For cut-and-come-again harvesting, always leave at least a third of the leaves to support regrowth. Water the plants lightly after harvesting to reduce stress and encourage fresh shoots.

With these techniques, you can enjoy a continuous supply of scallions all season long while keeping your garden thriving.

Storing Fresh Scallions

Proper storage ensures your scallions stay crisp and flavorful for weeks. Start by trimming off any wilted or yellowed parts, then rinse them under cool water and pat them dry with a paper towel.

For short-term storage, place the scallions upright in a jar with an inch of water, cover them loosely with a plastic bag, and keep them in the fridge—this keeps them fresh for up to a week.

If you need longer storage, wrap the scallions in a damp paper towel and seal them in a reusable plastic bag before refrigerating. Avoid washing them until you’re ready to use them, as excess moisture can lead to spoilage.

For future use, chop the scallions and freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen scallions are perfect for cooked dishes like soups or stir-fries, though they lose some crispness for raw preparations.

Troubleshooting Common Scallion Growing Problems

Preventing and Treating Pests like Onion Thrips

Onion thrips are tiny pests that suck sap from your scallion leaves, causing them to look silvery or streaked. To keep them away, start by encouraging beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings in your garden, which naturally prey on thrips.

If you spot an infestation, blast the plants with a strong stream of water to knock them off. For heavier infestations, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil directly to the affected areas, ensuring you cover the undersides of leaves where thrips hide.

Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, as lush growth attracts these pests. Regularly inspect your scallions, especially during hot, dry weather when thrips thrive. By catching them early and using these natural methods, you can protect your crop without harsh chemicals.

Managing Fungal Diseases such as Downy Mildew

Downy mildew is a fungal disease that causes pale, yellow spots on scallion leaves, which later turn brown and fuzzy. To prevent it, ensure proper spacing between plants to improve airflow and reduce humidity, which fungi love.

Water your scallions at the base early in the day so leaves dry quickly, and avoid overhead watering. If downy mildew appears, remove infected leaves immediately to stop its spread. You can also apply a copper-based fungicide as a last resort, following the label instructions carefully.

Rotate your crops each year, planting scallions in a different spot to break the disease cycle. Keep your garden clean by removing debris, which can harbor fungal spores. With good airflow and careful watering, you can keep your scallions healthy and mildew-free.

Why Your Scallions Are Bolting and How to Stop It

Bolting happens when scallions send up a flower stalk instead of growing tender stems, often triggered by temperature fluctuations or stress. Once they bolt, the stems become tough and less flavorful.

To prevent this, plant scallions in cool weather (spring or fall) and avoid exposing them to extreme heat or cold. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as drought stress can also trigger bolting.

If you notice a flower stalk forming, harvest the scallions immediately—they’re still edible but best used soon. Choose bolt-resistant varieties for your region, and mulch around the plants to regulate soil temperature.

By giving them stable conditions and consistent care, you’ll enjoy tender, flavorful scallions all season long without the frustration of premature flowering.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I grow scallions from seeds?

Start by sowing scallion seeds directly in the soil ¼ inch deep and 2 inches apart in early spring or late summer. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and thin seedlings to 4 inches apart as they grow. Scallions prefer full sun (6-8 hours daily) and well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0.

Can I regrow scallions from store-bought ones?

Yes, simply place the white root ends of scallions in a small jar with about an inch of water, ensuring the roots are submerged. Change the water every 2-3 days and place the jar in a sunny spot; new green shoots will appear within a week. For longer-lasting growth, transplant the rooted ends into soil after 1-2 weeks.

How long do scallions take to grow?

Scallions grown from seeds typically take 60-80 days to reach harvestable size. If regrowing from scraps, you can start cutting fresh green shoots in as little as 7-10 days. For a continuous supply, sow new seeds every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season.

What are the best conditions for growing scallions?

Scallions thrive in cool weather (55-75°F) and can tolerate light frost, making them ideal for spring and fall planting. They require at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, though partial shade can help in hotter climates. Ensure the soil is loose, fertile, and well-draining to prevent rotting.

How do I harvest scallions so they keep growing?

To encourage regrowth, cut the green tops about 1-2 inches above the soil, leaving the white base intact. Alternatively, gently pull the entire plant from the soil if you need the bulb. Regular harvesting promotes new growth and prevents the scallions from becoming too pungent.

Can scallions be grown indoors?

Yes, scallions grow well indoors in pots or containers with drainage holes, provided they get enough light (6+ hours daily from a sunny window or grow lights). Use a high-quality potting mix and keep the soil evenly moist. Trim the greens regularly to encourage bushier growth.