How to Grow Onions from Onions at Home ? Best Guide for 2025

1. Introduction

Ever thrown away an onion that started sprouting ? What if I told you that sprouting onion could grow into a whole new one ? Instead of wasting it, you can regrow onions from onions with just a little patience.
Whether you have a garden or a sunny windowsill, this guide will show you exactly how to do it, no fancy equipment required !

2. Understanding the Basics :

Onions are one of the easiest vegetables to regrow because they naturally sprout from their base. There are two main ways to do this :

1. In soil : The best option for strong, healthy onions.
2. In water : A quick way to start sprouting before transferring them to soil.

Best Onions for Regrowing :

• Green onions (scallions) : Super easy to regrow, great for small spaces.
• Yellow onions : Sturdy and flavorful, perfect for cooking.
• Red onions : Rich in antioxidants, ideal for fresh salads.
• White onions : Mild taste, great for various dishes.

3. Choosing the Right Onions :

Not all onions will regrow well. Here’s what to look for :

✅ Organic onions (they sprout better since they aren’t treated with chemicals).
✅ Firm, fresh bulbs with small root buds at the bottom.
✅ A cool-season variety if you want a full-sized onion bulb.

Avoid onions that are mushy, shriveled, or heavily treated with pesticides, as they might not sprout properly.

4. Planting Guide (Step-by-Step Instructions) :

Here’s how to regrow onions the easy way:

Method 1 : Growing Onions in Soil

1. Prepare the Soil : Loose, well-draining soil is best (pH 6.0-6.8).
2. Cut the Onion Base : Slice off the bottom inch, keeping the root intact.
3. Plant It : Place the cut side down, cover lightly with soil.
4. Water Gently : Keep the soil moist but not soaked.
5. Sunlight Matters : Onions need 6+ hours of sunlight every day.

Method 2 : Regrowing Onions in Water

1. Fill a Small Jar : Add enough water to cover just the onion’s base.
2. Place Onion Root-Side Down : Let it sit in indirect sunlight.
3. Change Water Every 2 Days : Prevents rot and keeps it fresh.
4. Wait for Sprouting : You’ll see roots in a few days.
5. Transfer to Soil (Optional) : Once roots grow a few inches, plant it in soil for better growth.

5. Essential Care & Maintenance

Once your onions start growing, follow these tips to keep them happy:

Watering Tips

• Twice a week is usually enough.
• If the weather is hot, water more often.
• Cut back on watering as the onions mature to avoid rot.

Fertilizing

• Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
• Organic compost works great to improve soil health.

Sunlight & Temperature

• Onions need 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
• They grow best in 55-75°F (13-24°C).

6. Common Problems & How to Fix Them :

Even onions have their struggles! Here’s how to fix common problems:

1. Yellowing Leaves :

• Cause : Overwatering or lack of nitrogen.
• Solution : Water less and add a little fertilizer.

2. Onion Rot :

• Cause: Too much moisture or poor drainage.
• Solution : Use well-draining soil and water less often.

3. Pests (Onion Maggots, Thrips) :

• Solution : Try neem oil spray or keep your onions covered.

7. Harvesting & Storing Onions :

After about 3-4 months, your onions will be ready! Signs they’re mature:
✔️ The leaves turn yellow and fall over.
✔️ The bulbs look fully grown and firm.

Harvesting Steps :

1. Loosen the soil and gently pull the bulbs.
2. Let them dry in a shaded, airy spot for 1-2 weeks.
3. Store in a cool, dark place (onions last longer this way!).

8. Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Regrowing onions is one of the easiest ways to get free food from scraps. Whether you start them in water or plant them directly in soil, you’ll always have fresh onions for cooking.

👉 Try it out and let us know how it goes in the comments !

9. Conclusion :

Onions are one of the easiest vegetables to regrow. With just a little effort, you can have a steady supply of fresh onions year-round. Follow the steps, be patient, and enjoy your homegrown harvest !

10. FAQs

Q1: Can I grow onions indoors all year ?
Yes! Just make sure they get enough light or use grow lights.

Q2: How long does it take for onions to grow ?
Around 3-4 months for full bulbs, but you can harvest green shoots earlier.

Q3: Can I regrow onions from store-bought ones ?
Yes, but organic onions work best since they aren’t treated with inhibitors.

Q4: How often should I water onions ?
Water twice a week, adjusting for weather conditions.

Q5: What soil is best for onions ?
Well-draining, loose soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8.