The Onion Is Available In Several
Varieties
Onions are of uncertain origin. They
grow wild in many places and may be found in the
hardwood forests in early spring. Chinese records show
the cultivation of onions for 7,000 years. Ancient Egypt
considered onions to be a symbol of eternity.
Onions are undemanding and are easily grown in almost
any tiny corner of our yard. They are welcome as the
‘first breath of spring.’ They are the ‘proper’ garnish
for a hamburger sandwich and are great in salads, soups
and stews.
They are available in several forms. Beside the familiar
green onion that is eaten leaf and all, they are
available as the bulb with no top and are classified as
‘dry’ onions. They may also be gotten as chopped ‘dried’
onions which will store for a long time are excellent
when they are reconstituted in soups and stews.
We are familiar with some of the varieties, such as the
yellow onion, the white onion, the Bermuda onion, and
the sweet tasting Vidalia onion which is not so much a
variety as it is the result of the soil where it is
grown.
It is interesting to note that onions are latitude
sensitive. The further we are from the equator, the
longer are the summer days. This has a great effect on
growing onions. The longer the daylight hours the larger
will be the root growth. By careful selection, you can
plant a variety that will do best for you in your
particular latitude.
(R.D.)
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