The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Growing => Vegetables => Topic started by: tomandbarbara on March 13, 2009, 07:29:47 pm

Title: Japanese onions
Post by: tomandbarbara on March 13, 2009, 07:29:47 pm

Hello,

I am new to veg growing so apologies if this is a daft question.

But I planted some japanese onions late last year, although they are growing quite well. I have pulled one up and the bulb is very soft and mushy.

Is this normal, will they harden up, or are they just rotting.

Title: Re: Japanese onions
Post by: Rosemary on March 14, 2009, 08:15:05 pm

I'm no expert but it doesn't sound good to me. When shoudl they be ready for harvesting?

Title: Re: Japanese onions
Post by: northfifeduckling on March 14, 2009, 09:21:05 pm

Sounds like the frost was maybe too much for them?? The ones I had left out accidently over the winter felt like the way you describe it. :&>

Title: Re: Japanese onions
Post by: Birdie Wife on March 17, 2009, 12:44:18 pm

I think it's probably entirely normal - the set shrinks when the tip starts growing.  If the growing tip is green and firm then I wouldn't worry.  My jap onions have been down to -10degC with no ill-effects later on, they really are fanstastically hardy.  The bulbs should start firming up in the next couple of months and be ready for July-ish.