Onions and Leeks

Onions

Start indoors early, and plant out as soon as ground can be worked. I start min in February, and as they grow, give them a little haircut so growth is redirected to the root. Onions require rich soil and plentiful watering. Keep well weeded. 100 seeds.

• Ailsa Craig
  Named after Ailsa, a small, round island off the coast of England that is solid rock. Introduced in 1887 by David Murray, gardener for the Marquis of Ailsa. Ailsa Craig is globe-shaped and solid. Large straw colored onions with small necks average 2 pounds. Best for fresh use, not extended storage. Long-day type. 100 days from transplant.



• Long Red Florence
  Hard to find Italian heirloom. Nice long bottle shaped bulbs. Excellent mild flavor. Very nice for using fresh. Can be sown in spring and fall in milder climates. 100-120 days from transplant. Packet 100 seeds.



• Borettana Yellow – aka Cipollini
  Italian heirloom traditionally pickled. If harvested when small (2" diameter and 3/4" thick) it is ideal for kabobs. Grows to 3-4" diameter and skin will turn yellowish-bronze colour. Firm, sweet flesh. Best used fresh during the summer. 60 days from transplant. Packet 100 seeds.



• Red Wethersfield
  First listed in 1834 by Hovey and Co. Developed by growers in Wetherfield, Connecticut. Large flattened globe, deep purplish skin, fairly firm pink-tinged white flesh with red concentric circles, fine flavour. 100 days from transplant. Packet 100 seeds.

Leeks

Culture: can be direct seeded, but for largest size and earliest leeks, start indoors 10 weeks before setting out. They like a nice rich soil, compost well. Will very easily overwinter. 100 seeds minimum.

• Blue Solaise
  Beautiful 19th century French heirloom with truly blue-colored leaves that turn violet after a cold spell. Very large 15-20" stalks are sweet and flavorful. Extremely hardy, good for short-season areas and winter harvest. 100-120 days from transplant.