Easy Tips for Growing Spring Onions in Urban Gardens

Spring onions are known by different names around the world - green onions, scallions, bunching onions, or Welsh onions. In Malaysia, we commonly refer to the green stalks that sprout from onions or shallots as spring onions. I only discovered they’re also called scallions after using the term "spring onions" and finding out they go by both names. Regardless of what you call them, did you know how easy it is to grow spring onions?

Repurposing Shallots and Onions for Growing Spring Onions

Never throw away onions or shallots that are no longer suitable for cooking or are about to spoil. These can easily be repurposed to grow spring onions. That’s exactly how I grow mine.

Of course, you can plant fresh shallots and onions, but why waste them when those leftover, unused ones start sprouting green stalks right in your kitchen? Once they start showing signs of growth, set them aside and get ready to plant them as spring onions.

How to Grow Spring Onions

There’s no big secret or magic in growing spring onions. All you need to do is push the shallots or onions into the soil, making sure they’re well-covered and sit firmly in the soil. This technique works whether you're planting in pots or directly in the ground (LEMONGRASS NATURAL AROMATHERAPY ).

In Nava’s Zen, our urban garden where we also conduct yoga fitness sessions, I leave space specifically for growing them. Whether in pots or the garden, ensure you water them light - overwatering, especially in pots, can cause the bulbs to rot. Ground-planted onions can handle a bit more water, and in Nava’s Zen, we use harvested rainwater as part of our sustainable practices.

No Special Care Needed
Spring onions grow effortlessly with no need for fertilizers or special care. Once you harvest them, however, you’ll need to start fresh, as they won’t regrow. Interestingly, the leftover bulbs act as natural fertilizers, enriching the soil.

 

Even better - spring onions are largely pest-free! Bugs and insects tend to avoid them, making them an organic, hassle-free addition to your garden.

 

Why Are My Spring Onions Small?

One thing I’ve noticed is that the spring onions I grow are thinner and smaller than the ones you typically find in stores. I’m not sure why that is—do you happen to know? If so, I’d love to hear your Zen insights.

Why Grow Spring Onions?

Smell-wise, spring onions have a fresh, green aroma with a hint of sweetness. The scent is reminiscent of fresh herbs and young vegetables, with a mild onion-like undertone.

 

Taste-wise, spring onions are mild and subtly sweet with a refreshing crunch from the green stalks. Their delicate flavor adds a gentle herbaceousness to dishes without the pungency of mature onions.

Versatility in the Kitchen

Spring onions are not just easy to grow - they’re incredibly versatile. You can toss them in salads, stir-fry them, sprinkle them on soups, or use them as a garnish. They add a burst of freshness and a touch of green to any dish. Plus, when you grow your own, you’ll always have a supply on hand, right in your backyard or even on your windowsill.

 

In my kitchen, spring onions are a staple, especially when I’m cooking a variety of cuisines like Malay, Chinese, Nyonya, Thai, Indonesian, and Japanese (5 EASY VEGETARIAN RECIPES: JAPANESE INSPIRED).

The Joy of Growing Spring Onions
Should you consider growing spring onions? Absolutely! While you won’t save millions by growing them, there’s something deeply fulfilling about harvesting fresh, home-grown spring onions for your meals. Plus, they add a beautiful green touch to urban living - offering a breath of fresh air in the fast-paced city life.