When to Harvest Onions

Onions are usually ready to harvest when the leaves begin to yellow and fall over. Harvesting at the right time helps onions store well and develop full flavour.

In the UK, onions planted in spring are typically harvested in mid to late summer.

Watching the plant leaves is the easiest way to know when onions are ready.

Signs onions are ready to harvest

Onions are usually ready when:

• leaves turn yellow

• stems fall over naturally

• bulbs have reached a good size

This is a normal part of the onion growing cycle.

Harvesting onions carefully

Gently lift onions from the soil using a fork or by hand.

Avoid damaging the bulbs while harvesting.

Shake off loose soil but don’t wash onions immediately.

Drying onions after harvest

Onions store better if they are allowed to dry after harvesting.

Place them in a:

• dry

• warm

• well-ventilated area

Drying helps the outer skin toughen.

Harvesting container onions

Container-grown onions can be lifted easily from compost.

For container advice, see growing onions in containers.

Onion harvest season in the UK

Most onions planted in spring are harvested between July and August, depending on planting time and weather.

Harvesting at the right time improves storage and flavour.

For planting advice, see when to plant onions in the UK.

For growing advice, see how to grow onions in the UK.