300
TEXAS EARLY 
GRANO ONION
SEEDS

Cultivating Texas Early Grano Onions: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction:
Texas Early Grano Onions are a popular and versatile vegetable with a sweet and mild flavor. These onions are known for their early maturity, making them an excellent choice for gardeners looking to have a bountiful harvest in record time. In this guide, we will discuss how to successfully cultivate Texas Early Grano Onions, from preparing the soil to harvesting the crop.

1. Soil and Site Preparation:
- Choose a well-draining location with full sun exposure for at least six hours per day.
- Ensure the soil is fertile, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic with a pH of 6.0-6.8.
- Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve its fertility and moisture retention.
- Before planting, remove any weeds or debris and ensure the soil is adequately loosened.

2. Seed Selection and Planting:
- Purchase quality Texas Early Grano Onion seeds from a reputable supplier.
- Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected spring frost date or directly sow seeds outdoors once the soil reaches 50°F (10°C) and the risk of frost has passed.
- Sow seeds oe inch (1.25 cm) deep and 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart, in rows spaced 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart.
- Thin seedlings to 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) apart when they reach a height of 4-6 inches (10-15 cm).

3. Watering and Mulching:
- Onions require consistent moisture, especially during dry periods.
- Water the plants at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, as this can promote disease development.
- Apply 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week, and increase the amount during hot and dry spells.
- Mulch the onion bed with straw or organic mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

4. Fertilization:
- Texas Early Grano onions are heavy feeders.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, before planting at a rate of 1-2 pounds per 100 square feet.
- Side-dress the plants with nitrogen-rich fertilizer, like ammonium sulfate, when they reach a height of 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) and again every four weeks thereafter.

5. Pests and Diseases:
- Common pests include onion maggots, thrips, and onion thrips.
- Monitor regularly and treat as soon as signs of infestation are noticed, using appropriate insecticides or organic alternatives.
- Diseases that can affect Texas Early Grano onions include downy mildew, white rot, and pink root.
- Practice crop rotation, avoid overhead watering, and treat accordingly to prevent or minimize diseases.

6. Harvesting:
- Texas Early Grano onions are ready for harvest once the bulbs reach a desirable size, typically 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) in diameter.
- Watch for the tops to turn yellow and flop over naturally.
- Gently dig the onions out of the soil, ensuring not to damage the bulbs.
- Allow the onions to cure in a dry, well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks until the tops dry completely.