A Guide to Properly Storing Onions
Growing onions in the garden brings me so much joy. There’s rarely a savory dish I can think of that isn’t improved with the addition of an onion. And the amount of glee I experience in pulling a beautiful, massive onion out of the ground is hard to explain in words. Better yet, these beauties, if stored well, can last you deep into the winter. In this guide, we'll explore the best practices for storing onions and keeping them at their peak for longer periods.
Understanding Onion Storage
Before delving into the specifics of onion storage, it's important to understand the factors that contribute to their longevity. Onions are sensitive to moisture, light, and temperature. Exposure to these elements can lead to sprouting, mold growth, or the loss of flavor and texture. To extend their shelf life, follow these tips:
Not all onions are appropriate for long-term storage. Different onion varieties have varying storage durations, with yellow onions generally being the best for long-term storage due to their thick, protective skins. For example, the sweeter onions like Walla Wallas, do not have the same storage potential as a “storage onion” variety such as Patterson. If you are growing these onions yourself, plan ahead. Eat the non-storage varieties throughout the summer and fall, and save the storage varieties for eating later.
Sort the Onions for Storage: Select onions that are firm, dry, and free from any signs of mold or soft spots. Sort your harvest into two piles — onions in perfect form for long-term storage, and the slightly damaged ones for eating immediately. Make sure you sort carefully because one bad onion in the batch could ruin the entire crate.
Keep Onions Dry: Moisture is the enemy of onion storage. Always store onions in a cool, dry place.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Onions should be kept away from direct sunlight as exposure to light can cause them to sprout.
Appropriate Ventilation: Onions need proper air circulation to prevent the buildup of moisture and mold. Avoid sealing them in airtight containers, as this can trap moisture. Instead, opt for containers with holes or baskets that allow for ventilation.
Separate from Potatoes: Do not store onions alongside potatoes. Both emit gases that can accelerate spoilage. Keep them in separate containers or locations to maintain their freshness.
Storage Options
Now that we've covered the key principles of onion storage, let's explore different storage options:
Mesh Bags: Mesh bags are a great choice for storing onions. They provide ventilation which helps prevent sprouting and mold. Hang these bags in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Pantyhose: Yes, you read that right! You can store onions in pantyhose. Place one onion in a leg, tie a knot, add another onion, tie another knot, and so on. Hang the pantyhose in a cool, dry place, ensuring each onion has enough space.
Wooden Crates or Baskets: Wooden crates or baskets offer excellent ventilation and a rustic storage solution. Line them with newspaper or straw to cushion the onions and absorb any excess moisture.
Cool, Dark Pantry or Basement: If you have a pantry or basement that meets the criteria of being cool, dark, and dry, this can be an ideal storage spot for your onions.
Proper onion storage is a simple yet effective way to extend their shelf life and maintain their quality. By keeping them dry, dark, and well-ventilated, you can ensure that your onions remain fresh, flavorful, and ready for use.
Hi Friends!
I am Rachel Kulchin, the passionate force behind the Blue Heron Project! As a dedicated Backyard Farmer, I am on a heartfelt mission to rekindle your connection with the garden.
Firmly rooted in the belief of savoring the flavors of seasonal and sustainable eating, I am dedicated to empowering you with the liberating experience of reclaiming control over your own food.
Join me on this authentic and exciting adventure towards a more connected and sustainable garden-to-table lifestyle.