Onion Violet de Galmi (Allium cepa) is a unique heirloom variety known for its vibrant violet skin and mild, slightly sweet flavor. This heat-tolerant onion originates from West Africa and thrives in warm climates. It is ideal for fresh use, salads, cooking, and long-term storage.

How to Grow Violet de Galmi Onion

Sowing and Germination

• Starting Indoors: Begin seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays or containers with well-draining soil. Maintain a temperature of 65–75°F for germination.
• Direct Sowing: In warm climates, sow seeds directly in the garden when soil temperatures reach at least 50°F.

Transplanting:

• Harden off seedlings before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week.
• Space plants 4–6 inches apart in rows 12–18 inches apart to allow for proper bulb development.

Soil Requirements:

• Prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
• Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.

Sunlight:

• Requires full sun, at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Growing Violet de Galmi Onion

Watering:

• Onions need consistent moisture, especially during bulb formation. Provide 1 inch of water per week, increasing in dry conditions.
• Avoid overwatering, as waterlogged soil can cause rot.

Mulching:

• Apply a light mulch layer around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing:

• Use a balanced nitrogen-rich fertilizer in the early stages to promote leaf growth.
• Switch to a fertilizer higher in phosphorus and potassium once bulbs start forming.
• Avoid excess nitrogen in late growth stages to prevent excessive foliage at the expense of bulb size.

Pest and Disease Management:

• Common pests include onion thrips and aphids—control them with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
• To prevent fungal diseases, ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
• Practice crop rotation to reduce soil-borne diseases.

Fast Facts

• Latin Name: Allium cepa
• Type: Heirloom, Open-Pollinated
• USDA Zones: 5–12
• Days to Germination: 7–14 days
• Days to Maturity: 90–120 days
• Sunlight: Full Sun
• Spacing: 4–6 inches apart
• Soil pH: 6.0–7.0
• Color: Violet-Purple

How and When to Harvest Violet de Galmi Onion

• Harvest onions when the tops turn yellow and start falling over, typically after 90–120 days.
• Carefully lift bulbs from the soil and allow them to cure for 2–3 weeks in a warm, dry, and shaded area with good airflow.
• Once fully cured, trim off roots and foliage, then store in a cool, dry place. Properly cured onions can last several months in storage.

Onion Violet de Galmi Seed Saving

• Allow some plants to flower and go to seed in their second year (as onions are biennials).
• Collect dry seed heads, crush them gently, and separate the seeds.
• Store seeds in a cool, dry place for up to 3 years for future planting.

Onion Violet de Galmi is a resilient and flavorful onion variety that thrives in warm climates. Its beautiful violet skin and excellent storage ability make it a great addition to any garden. With proper care, you’ll enjoy a bountiful harvest of these unique, richly flavored onions!