Onions require a sunny position and a well drained soil. Dig the area in autumn or early winter and incorporate garden compost. If the soil is acid add lime prior to planting. Firm the soil before planting and apply a general fertilizer such as Growmore. Autumn planting varieties are planted from mid September and early November and spring planting takes place from February to April. Space the onion sets 10cm (4") apart in the row and about 30cm (12") between rows. Press the sets firmly into the soil so that the tip of the bulb is just above soil level. Keep the plants well watered in dry spells.

The onions are ready for harvesting when the foliage turns yellow and topples over. On a dry day lift the bulbs and leave in the sun or under protection under protection in wet weather to dry, turning them two or three times. Depending on bulb size. Depending on bulb size drying can take one to three weeks. Once the bulbs have been dried they should be stored in a cool light place.