Onions are a staple in just about every kitchen, and for good reason—they’re delicious, packed with health benefits, and relatively easy to grow. But if you want to enjoy that homegrown flavor long after the gardening season ends, you need to know how to handle them properly once they’re out of the ground.
What to Do Before and After Harvest
To get the best results, you actually want to start preparing a few weeks before you plan on harvesting. Stop watering your onions entirely during this time to let the soil dry out around the bulbs. Once you’ve dug them up, you can let them cure right on top of the garden bed for a week or two, provided the weather stays dry. However, keep an eye on the forecast! If you see rain or intense, scorching sun coming your way, move your onions to a more protected spot to finish drying.
Once the tops (the foliage) are nice and dry, you can use them to braid or tie the onions together. Hanging them up this way helps the outer skins toughen up, which is the secret to a long shelf life. Before you move them to their final storage spot, you can trim off any remaining dried roots or leaves. If the foliage snaps off easily, it’s a sign you’ve been patient enough—your onions are perfectly cured and ready to go.
The Best Way to Store Your Onions
Finding the right storage spot isn’t rocket science, but there are a few “must-haves” to keep your harvest fresh:
- Keep it dark.
- Aim for cool temperatures (ideally between 40°F and 50°F).
- Make sure there’s plenty of airflow.
- Keep things dry to prevent moisture buildup.
As long as you check these boxes, you won’t have to worry about mold or rot ruining your hard work. You’ll have firm, flavorful onions ready whenever you need them! Great storage spots include unheated garages, attics, or dry basements. Just be sure to keep them in something breathable, like a wooden crate or a mesh bag. Avoid plastic bags at all costs, and skip the refrigerator—it’s actually too humid for long-term onion storage. If you find yourself with a massive surplus, you can also try pickling them to make them last even longer.
