Onion Production: Techniques, Harvesting, Market, Storage, Disease

14 Questions

What type of soil is commonly used for onion production?

Sandy loam and muck soil

What is the ideal pH range for onion cultivation?

5.8 - 6.6

When is the optimal time to harvest onions?

When the tops have turned yellow and before the plants start to die

Which of the following is NOT a common harvesting method for onions?

Using a mechanical harvester

What is the primary reason for timely onion harvesting?

To prevent bulb rot and sprouting

Which of the following is NOT a common marketing option for onion growers?

Online sales

What is the primary purpose of marketing cooperatives for onion growers?

To help spread price fluctuations across all participants

What is the recommended storage environment for onions?

Cool, dark, and well-ventilated

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a factor in choosing onion varieties?

Soil type

Which of the following is the most important factor in determining the ideal onion variety for a given region?

Soil pH

What is the primary reason for the preference of muck soils over sandy loams for growing specialty onion varieties like sweet Spanish onions?

Muck soils have higher sulfur content

Which of the following is the most important field operation for ensuring optimal onion yield and quality?

Variety selection

Which of the following is the primary reason for the preference of friable soils with high organic matter content for onion cultivation?

Better soil structure and aeration

Which of the following is the most significant challenge faced by onion growers in the marketing and distribution of their crop?

Fluctuating market prices

Study Notes

Onion Production: Cultivation Techniques, Harvesting Methods, Market Trends, Storage Practices, Disease Management

Cultivation Techniques

Onions are cool-season crops that grow best in friable soils containing high amounts of organic matter and having good water infiltration rates and moisture-holding capacity. Soil should not be compacted, and the pH should be between 5.8 and 6.6. Sandy loam and muck soils are commonly used for onion production. Varieties are chosen based on factors like day length (long-day vs. intermediate-day).

Harvesting Methods

Onions are typically harvested when the tops begin to turn yellow and before the plants start to die. Harvesting methods include pulling by hand, digging with tools like a hoe, or using a combination of these. Timely harvesting is crucial to prevent bulb rot and sprouting.

Market Trends

There are several marketing options for onion growers: wholesale markets, cooperatives, local retailers, processors, roadside stands, farmers markets, CSA, and pick-your-own operations. Growers should consider their ability to reach specific markets and conduct market research to estimate sales potential. While fresh-market onions are available from July to October in the northeastern United States, marketing cooperatives can help spread price fluctuations across all participants.

Storage Practices

Onions should be stored in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated environment to prevent spoilage. Producers can choose from various container sizes, including 5-gallon buckets, ensuring they are non-toxic, easy to clean, and free of sharp objects. Synthetic bags can be used for field curing if necessary. Post-harvest handling activities should focus on minimizing bruises and damages to the onion skins, which can serve as entry points for bacterial contamination.

Disease Management

Onion diseases can significantly reduce yields and affect market values. Common diseases include Botrytis neck rot, Rhizoctonia rot, Fusarium basal rot, and Stemphylium leaf blight. Cultural practices such as autumn plowing, spring disking, and crop rotation can help control these diseases. Chemical treatments, particularly fungicides, can also be effective in managing some diseases.