What To Know
- You can use a grow lamp if you don’t have a sunny windowsill.
- Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the leaves about an inch above the soil.
- Simply take the base of the scallion, the part that was in the soil, and re-plant it in a new pot.
Growing your own scallions indoors can be a rewarding and satisfying experience. You’ll have fresh, flavorful scallions at your fingertips year-round, adding a delightful crunch and vibrant aroma to your meals. This guide will walk you through the process of growing scallions from seed indoors, from seed selection to harvesting.
Choosing the Right Seeds
The first step in your indoor scallion journey is choosing the right seeds. While you can find scallion seeds at most garden centers and online retailers, you can also use seeds from existing scallions.
Here’s how to use seeds from existing scallions:
1. Select healthy scallions: Look for scallions with vibrant green leaves and firm bulbs.
2. Cut the top inch or two off the scallions: This will expose the seed heads.
3. Place the cut scallions in a glass of water: The seed heads will sprout roots and new growth.
4. Once the roots are a few inches long, you can plant them in soil.
You can also purchase scallion seeds online or at your local garden center. Choose seeds specifically labeled for scallions, as onion seeds will take longer to mature and won’t have the same flavor profile.
Preparing Your Indoor Garden
Once you have your seeds, it’s time to prepare your indoor garden. You can use a variety of containers, including:
- Seed trays: These are ideal for starting seeds, as they have individual cells to prevent overcrowding.
- Small pots: Use pots that are at least 4 inches in diameter for individual scallion plants.
- Window boxes: Window boxes are a great option for growing scallions in a sunny windowsill.
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your containers:
- Potting mix: Choose a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for vegetables.
- Drainage holes: Ensure your containers have drainage holes to prevent overwatering.
- Watering can or spray bottle: You’ll need a watering can or spray bottle to keep the soil moist.
Getting Your Seeds Started
Now, let’s get those seeds in the ground. Here’s a step-by-step guide to starting your scallion seeds:
1. Fill your containers with potting mix: Leave about an inch of space at the top for watering.
2. Gently press down on the soil: This will create a firm surface for the seeds.
3. Sow the seeds: Place the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart.
4. Cover the seeds with soil: Gently pat the soil over the seeds.
5. Water thoroughly: Use a watering can or spray bottle to moisten the soil.
6. Place your containers in a warm, sunny location: A windowsill that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day is ideal.
Nurturing Your Scallion Seedlings
Once you’ve planted your seeds, it’s time to provide them with the care they need to thrive.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Keep the soil consistently moist: Don’t let the soil dry out completely, but also avoid overwatering.
- Provide adequate sunlight: Scallions need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. You can use a grow lamp if you don’t have a sunny windowsill.
- Fertilize regularly: Once the seedlings emerge, fertilize them every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
- Thin the seedlings: If your seedlings are overcrowded, thin them out to give them more space to grow.
Harvesting Your Fresh Scallions
Congratulations! Your scallions are ready to harvest. You can start harvesting the leaves as soon as they reach a few inches tall.
Here’s how to harvest your scallions:
- Cut the leaves at the base: Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the leaves about an inch above the soil.
- Harvest only what you need: You can continue to harvest leaves from the same plant throughout the growing season.
- Enjoy your fresh scallions: Add them to salads, soups, stir-fries, or use them as a garnish.
The End of the Harvest – Now What?
After harvesting your scallions, you can continue to grow more.
Here’s how to keep your scallion supply going:
- Re-plant: You can re-plant the base of the scallions you harvested. Simply take the base of the scallion, the part that was in the soil, and re-plant it in a new pot.
- Start new seeds: You can also continue to sow new seeds to ensure a continuous supply of fresh scallions.
Scallions: A Year-Round Delight
Growing scallions from seed indoors is a simple and rewarding experience. You’ll have fresh, flavorful scallions at your fingertips year-round, adding a delightful crunch and vibrant aroma to your meals. With a little patience and care, you can enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own scallions from seed indoors.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q1: How long does it take for scallion seeds to germinate?
A1: Scallion seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days.
Q2: How often should I water my scallion seedlings?
A2: Water your scallion seedlings when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q3: Can I grow scallions in a container outside?
A3: Yes, you can grow scallions in containers outside, but they will need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Q4: What are some other vegetables I can grow indoors?
A4: You can also grow other herbs and vegetables indoors, such as basil, parsley, lettuce, and spinach.
Q5: Can I use a grow lamp to grow scallions indoors?
A5: Yes, you can use a grow lamp to provide supplemental light for your scallions, especially during the winter months when there is less sunlight.
