Ringmaster
Onion
🌱 85d to harvest
Bulbing
Sweetly aromatic and beautifully mild, Ringmaster white onions develop into perfectly rounded bulbs with a clean, satin-smooth sk…
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Direct Sow |
| Last Frost | May 15th |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | May 15th |
| Harvest Begins | Aug 8th |
| Harvest Ends | Aug 25th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 85 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Bulbing |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 70 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 45 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 28 |
| Harden Off (days) | Not Required |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
What pest or disease is most common on Allium cepa (onion) and how can I treat it?
Onions are commonly hit by purple blotch (Alternaria porri) which shows as elongated purple-brown spots on leaves and can spread quickly in wet weather. Remove and discard infected leaves, improve airflow, and avoid overhead watering; you can also apply a labeled fungicide for onions if conditions are staying humid and the disease is spreading. Keep beds weed-free so foliage dries faster between rain or irrigation events.
How often should I water Allium cepa during the main bulbing phase, and what soil moisture target should I aim for?
During bulbing (typically mid-season through about the last few weeks before harvest), keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged—aim for about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week, split into 2–3 irrigations if it’s hot. If the soil stays soggy or you see leaf-yellowing with slow growth, reduce watering; if the leaves droop or grow stops, increase frequency to maintain consistent moisture. A simple check: the top 1 inch of soil should feel dry before you water again, while deeper soil remains lightly moist.
How do I tell when my Allium cepa is ready to harvest?
Harvest when most of the tops (usually about 50–70%) have fallen over and the necks start to soften, while bulbs have filled out and show papery skin. Stop watering around 1–2 weeks before harvest to help skins dry and cure properly. Lift carefully so you don’t cut the bulbs, and cure them in a warm, airy spot until the outer skins are crisp.