I kicked of my 1st official planting of 2008–onion sets. 60 sets (40 yellow and 20 red) went into the ground this week. When I checked the pricing, it seemed to be pretty close to what they were last year. At Giant Markets, they were $1.29 lb in yellow and white varieties. Alot of store seem to be at $1.35 per lb. Finally found the red ones I was looking for at Mr Z’s–they sell them by the bag–I got 80 for $1.19.

The problem with onion sets is that once they sell out the stock, they do not re-order, so I need to purchase as many as I can now, and then parcel them out, planting about every 2 weeks, throughout the season. The only problem wit that is when the weather gets hot, they can start to rot in the bag…So this year, I did some research and I am thinking my new gadget, my vacuum sealer, will help prevent the rotting of the sets so I can use them all season long. I’ll pack about a pound in one of the bags and keep then in my refrigerator. Hopefully this will work. I will keep you posted…

If this works I will be able to have scallions in my salads and omelets until late fall!

If you want to try your hand at planting some Green or Salad Onions (scallion), here are a few tips:

• Plant throughout the spring and into the summer (or as long as you have some…)
  Make sure your rows are at least 6 inches apart
  Plant each set 2-4 inches deep with the bulbs nearly touching (the deeper you plant, the more white portion will be produced)
• The onions are ready to use when the green tops are about 10 inches tall–this is usually about 4-6 weeks after planting
• Clean them thoroughly and then store green onions in a glass of water to keep fresh and flavorful.

Good Luck–and Happy Planting!