Onion : Ailsa Craig : Giant/Show Vegetable

Vegetable

Description

A splendid exhibition variety of golden merit producing large globe shaped onions with a rich, golden straw coloured skin. As well as being a super show variety, Onion Ailsa Craig is also one of the best varieties for general cultivation producing large onions with an excellent mild flavour. Onion Ailsa Craig can also be autumn sown.

Sowing Instructions

Sow seeds during mid-late winter in a good seed compost, just covering the seeds with compost. Germination takes 14-21 days at 19-21C (65-70F). Higher temperatures may prevent germination.

Growing Instructions

Transplant seedlings when 36mm (1½in) high into 9cm (3½in) pots. Making sure the tiny bulb is not covered. When well rooted move to a cold frame and plant out in early spring at 38cm (15in) apart in a sunny spot in a rich fertile soil which has had plenty of well rotted compost dug in the previous autumn, and a dressing of general fertiliser at 4oz/sq. yd applied just before planting.

Aftercare

Keep the soil moist during dry spells. As the leaves start to yellow bend over the tops, leave 14 days then lift and store when thoroughly ripened.

Nutritional Information

For years onions have been used as one of the oldest medicines for their anti-bacterial, antiseptic and anti-asthmatic properties. They have also shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.