Carmen F1

Onion

Zone 8b Save Garden

🌱 105d to harvest Bulbing

Carmen F1 brings a richly colored, deep mahogany-red bulb with a satin-smooth skin that glows under the garden sun. Expect a cris…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Jan 12th
Last Frost	Mar 23rd
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Mar 16th
Harvest Begins	Jun 29th
Harvest Ends	Nov 12th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	105
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Bulbing
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	50
Min Night Temp (°F)	40
Harden Off (days)	7

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Frequently Asked Questions

What common problem affects Allium cepa (onion) and what should I do for it?

One frequent issue is onion thrips, which cause silvery streaks on leaves and can stunt bulbs if unmanaged. Check plants weekly by tapping foliage over white paper and treat early with insecticidal soap (especially on the undersides) and remove any badly affected leaves. If the problem persists, rotate controls and avoid repeated broad-spectrum sprays that can flare secondary pests.

How often should I water Allium cepa during the main growing phase?

During active leaf and bulb growth, keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged—about 1 inch (2.5 cm) per week total, adjusted for rainfall and heat. Water deeply 1–2 times per week so moisture reaches the root zone, then let the top few centimeters dry slightly between waterings. When bulbs start enlarging, reduce watering to avoid cracked or soft bulbs.

How can I tell when Allium cepa is ready to harvest?

Harvest when about 50–75% of tops have fallen over and the remaining leaves are mostly dry, typically around the 105-day mark for this crop. Lift bulbs with a fork and gently cure them in a warm, airy spot out of direct rain for 1–2 weeks until skins are papery. If you can’t wait, onions harvested before full top fall should be used sooner because they store less well.

Carmen F1 brings a richly colored, deep mahogany-red bulb with a satin-smooth skin that glows under the garden sun. Expect a crisp, juicy bite and a balanced, gently pungent allium flavor that holds beautifully in storage—ideal for homegrown red storage onions you can rely on through the season. Grow Carmen F1 for dependable, uniform bulbs and a striking color that elevates every pantry staple.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 50°F and nights stay above 40°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

For sweet, well-sized bulbs, keep seedlings evenly moist and avoid nitrogen-heavy feeding once bulb formation begins.