The weather in Redding has been incredible. Time to get gardening!
This week onion starts that were ordered were brought in. Master Sargeant says, "Don't bother with bulbs. Onions are too slow and it gets too hot here."
The onion starts came in bundles, each start is about 3-4 inches long. Master Sargeant demonstrated how to prune the top and roots (mainly if not planting right away). He also removed any dead leaves or "gunk" left behind from being bundled. This was all done with scissors. He then separated each onion, especially if the roots were twisted.
There are three categories of onions: Short days (require 10-12 hours of sunlight); Intermediate (require 12-14 hours of sunlight) and Long Day (require 14-16 hours of sunlight).
To prepare the soil he stated it needs to have nitrogen and once planted they need to remain consistently moist. This will allow them to get nice and big rather than just the tops getting big and the onions remaining small. He also said consistent watering will keep them from tasting HOT.
When planting he reiterated how important it is to not plant too deeply. Maybe 1/2 inch in the ground, then as it grows cover the top with straw or light soil. The onions like to be planted shallowly.
Garlic starts were also brought in by fellow Gardner to share. Garlic needs to be planted deeper than onions. The entire bulb needs to be underground.
I asked how he extends his growing season, he said he plants "short day" onions, then about a month later plants the "long day" onions. Once the short days are done he replaces them with cantaloupe or corn.
**It is also time to start pepper seeds indoors.
**Spinach, cilantro, swiss chard (savory leaf is his favorite), radishes, broccoli can all be planted outdoors.
The question was asked about growing raspberries - is it possible here? The result was YES it is possible but it needs afternoon shade (tarp put up daily?) and lots of water.
Another fellow Gardner stated daffodil bulbs are poisonous to moles and if planted around a bed or garden will help deter moles.
Next time: Time to start tomatoes!
