2013 Onion Growing Challenge

Hello chums

I thought I'd start a thread for those that would be interested in having a go at growing some WHOPPERS in 2013. It would be nice if we could get a few of us trying our hand. Why so early? Well, I reckon it all starts now, with ground preparation. Also, there may be some that need to think about sourcing some seed. Traditionally, these need to be sown on Boxing Day, but obviously, some may not have the resource to do this(heated greenhouse/propagator or some-such). Some may elect to buy in some plants, some may want to do their 'normal' thing. Bottom line is, it's just a bit of fun, with a little competitiveness thrown in

Vince appears to be our resident Onion growing expert(I definitely am NOT!), and I for one will be looking for his input to this thread, well done Vince

EDIT : See post #68 for the guidelines of the competition and list of entrants so far. Herewith the link http://gardenerscorner.co.uk/forum/threads/2013-onion-growing-challenge.47324/page-4#post-605492

Come on folks, have a go

Cheers...Freddy

 

Got my seeds already Freddy....can't prep my bed just yet due to dodgey ribs but i'm up for it...looking forward to it....

 

Can I sit on the sidelines and get beaten?

I'll be growing my Kelsaes in their new bed next season, just hope someone will grow a bigger one!

I'm out to grow a whoppa parsnip next year!

 

I have a packet each of Kelsae & Ailsae in readiness.

 

I'll be attempting to grow giants again next year, as this years weather through a dirty great big spanner in the works for this years attempt (still managed a 1lb8oz though!).

I'll be sowing and growing Robinsons giant seed again.

Scrungee, you kinds poo-pooed the robinsons seeds in another onion topic here on GC...can I ask why? Have you grown them and where dissapointed?

Steve...

 

Hiya Steve.

My thoughts are that there's nothing wrong with Mammoth, it's just that they don't have the same potential as Kelsae. I seem to recall a member here(not seen for ages) producing a 10lb onion, from Kelsae.

Cheers...Freddy

 

Hi folks, just had a thought

Maybe some would like to have a category for Onions grown from sets?

 

My understanding is that they'll only grow to several pounds max, even with special care, but Kelsaes can grow bigger, and Ailsae seeds are capable of growing even bigger.

Was it 'vegmandan' ?

http://gardenerscorner.co.uk/forum/threads/i-failed-with-my-onions.7264/#post-73606

 

Marshalls used to sell setts for a large variety called 'Showmaster' but these are no longer available.

You can buy Kelsae onion plants from the like of T&M and Fothergills that I think are delivered around April.

 

I'm in

 

I've been on the phone to Robinsons this afternoon for a chat, they have been growing "Mammoth Improved" for 150 years now, they where the original show onion before Kelsaes and other varieties. However, Mammoth Inmproved growers regulalry grow to 8, 9 & 10lb.

Thats a reasonable size in my book...

Steve...

 

Steve if you haven't got your MI seeds yet you are welcome to some of mine and anyone else for that matter...i haven't alot of room so won't be growing many...just need one
BIG UN