How to grow your own onions and garlic

Here are five basics of gardening if you want to grow your own alliums: onions, shallots, leeks, garlic and green onions.

The main allium species require well-plowed and weeded soil that is also well drained and sunny.

• Onions can be grown from seeds or bulbs in their first year.
• Sow the seeds of the chive and leek families in spring.
• Plant cloves of garlic vertically, with the tip uppermost under 2.5 centimetres (one inch) of soil.
• They will need freshness and time to grow, so it's better to do this in the autumn or early winter.
• Some species, including A. triquetrum and A. tuberosum, reproduce freely and can be invasive.

• Weed around garlic and onion plants regularly, especially when beginning to grow. Avoid over-watering.

The main problems are powdery mildew, botrytis, white rot and rust.

• Grow resistant varieties, avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers, and space the plants to ensure good air circulation.
• Avoid over-watering.
• Remove and burn all diseased parts, and do not replant allium in the ground for three years.
• Garlic can be attacked by nematodes (roundworms): in this case, destroy the affected plants by burning, as chemicals are ineffective.

• If growing alliums for their aromatic leaves, pick them and use them fresh.
• You can harvest onions at any time.
• When it is fully grown, the tops of the garlic or onion will wither and fall.
• Choose a sunny day to pick the garlic or onion bulbs, then let them dry for a few days.
• Store them in a dry and well ventilated area to prevent fungal decay.

With these few basics, it will be easier to grow your own onions, garlic and leeks!