Scallions sowing

Discussion in 'Edible Gardening' started by Bee, May 13, 2025.

  1. Bee

    Bee Apprentice Gardener

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    I sowed purple scallions (seeds) in April. Uptil now I can't see any growth. I water regularly and also sprinkle compost and animal fertilizer every 2 weeks ( photo attached). Should I be positive that it grow?
     

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  2. NigelJ

    NigelJ Total Gardener

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    I think I'd sow some more seed in another patch, water them in and then when it dries out. I wouldn't apply fertiliser until they are growing and then only the once.
    I don't really understand the sprinkling with compost?
     
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    • infradig

      infradig Total Gardener

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      One might expect fresh onion seed to germinate within 2 weeks indoors but may take longer if outdoor soil temperatures are low; that is below 15deg C. Aspect and depth of sowing will affect this.
      Onions require soil which is rich in nutrients; ideally prepared before sowing. Addition of chemical fertiliser on to seed is unwise and could affect germination. Without knowledge of the conditions it is only possible to recommend trying again, with fresh seed. The originals may yet surface !
       
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      • Bee

        Bee Apprentice Gardener

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        Thanks. I'll get some more seeds as they can still be sowed until June. So should I put in same patch as garden space is limited? I'll put compost first (upto 3 inches) n then put seeds 1 cm deep!
         
      • JWK

        JWK Gardener Staff Member

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        You may have overfertilised that area which will suppress seed germination.

        I suggest you get them to germinate in a tray or pots filled with seed compost. Don't add anything but keep it moist, not soaked. Transplant once seedlings are big enough, 3 leaf stage.
         
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        • infradig

          infradig Total Gardener

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          Yes, agree.
          If you had modules or small 50mm pots, sow 5-6 seeds together and transplant 'as one' in groups 75mm apart. Slugs may graze new seedlings although onion is not a favorite.
          EDIT
          Many varieties of spring onion(scallion-US) are frost hardy to -2 deg at least and can be overwintered for use in early 2026 from a later sowing. Once established as transplants, they will enjoy a nitrogenous liquid feed.
           
          Last edited: May 14, 2025
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