Harvesting Allium Plants: Timing and Techniques

Alliums are a popular ornamental plant grown for their unique, spherical flowerheads. From common garden onions to ornamental onions like globe alliums, these plants make a striking statement in any garden. However, to enjoy their pleasant flavors or continue growing them from year to year, it’s crucial to know the proper timing and techniques for harvesting allium plants. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore when and how to harvest different types of alliums for the best results.

When to Harvest Allium Plants

Determining the optimal time to harvest alliums depends on which part of the plant you intend to use. Here are some tips on identifying peak harvest times:

• Bulbs – Allium bulbs like onions, garlic and shallots are ready to harvest when their foliage starts yellowing and falling over. This typically occurs in mid to late summer Avoid harvesting too early while the bulbs are still small

• Leaves – The fresh leaves of alliums like chives can be snipped as needed during the growing season. For best flavor, harvest in the morning after the dew has dried.

• Flowers – Ornamental alliums are ready for cutting when the flower buds are almost fully open. The blooms last longest when harvested at this stage.

• Seeds – Allow the flowers to fade completely and the seed heads to dry out on the stems before collecting allium seeds. This usually occurs in mid to late summer.

Pay attention to the specific variety you’re growing, as maturity times can vary. Conducting taste tests along the way can also help determine optimal harvest readiness.

Proper Harvesting Techniques

Follow these techniques when gathering your allium crops to ensure fresh undamaged plants

• Bulbs – Loosen soil with a garden fork then gently lift bulbs by the stems to avoid bruising. Allow them to dry out for 2-3 weeks before storing.

• Leaves/chives – Use clean, sharp scissors or shears to snip leaves about 2 inches above soil level. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.

• Flowers – Cut flower stems once blooms have opened, leaving ample foliage intact to feed the bulb for next year’s growth. Make cuts on a slant.

• Seeds – Gather dried seed heads individually or create small bundled groups secured with rubber bands. Suspend bundles in a dry, well-ventilated area to complete drying.

• Cleaning – Use a soft brush to remove soil from bulbs and roots. Avoid washing until just before use, as moisture hastens spoilage.

Proper harvesting technique preserves freshness, prevents bruising, and ensures the health of your allium plants.

Storing Your Allium Harvest

To enjoy your homegrown alliums year-round, proper storage is a must. Here are some tips:

• Store cured, dried bulbs in a cool (32-40°F), dark place with good airflow. Mesh bags work better than plastic bags.

• Freeze chopped leaves and flowers in ice cube trays with water or broth for longer shelf life.

• Place cut flowers in vases with fresh water, remove foliage below waterline, and change water daily.

• For seeds, further dry bundles in a single layer for about 2 weeks until brittle. Store in sealed glass jars in a cool, dry location.

With proper storage methods, you can extend the shelf life of your allium harvest by months and avoid spoilage or molding.

Common Alliums and Their Harvest Needs

Different allium varieties have their own ideal harvest times and techniques. Here is a quick guide to some popular options:

• Onions – Pull bulbs once 50% of tops have fallen over. Cure in a dry spot for 1-2 weeks before storing.

• Garlic – Harvest when bottom 3-4 leaves turn brown. Cure bulbs for 3-4 weeks at room temperature before storing.

• Leeks – Harvest leeks as needed by loosening soil with a trowel and pulling the stalks. They can withstand light frosts.

• Chives – Snip chive leaves about 2 inches above the ground as desired. Cut back flowers after they fade to encourage regrowth.

• Ornamental alliums – Cut flowering stems once lower blooms begin opening. Leave foliage intact to nourish the bulb for next year’s growth.

Understanding the ideal harvest time and method for your specific allium variety will lead to the best results in terms of flavor, nutritional content, and plant health.

Harvesting Allium Seeds for Replanting

Many alliums produce seed heads that allow you to collect seeds for future planting. Follow these tips for gathering and storing allium seeds:

• Allow seed heads to fully ripen and dry out on the stems before harvesting. Seeds should be dry and brown.

• Cut entire dried seed heads individually and place in paper bags or envelopes. Avoid using plastic bags.

• Further dry the seed heads for about 2 weeks in a well-ventilated, dry location out of direct sunlight.

• Gently crush the seed heads to separate out the seeds. Discard any chaff.

• Store the seeds in sealed glass jars or envelopes in a cool, dry spot. Label with plant name and harvest date.

• Viability typically lasts 1-3 years when properly stored. For best germination rates, use fresh seeds each season.

Saving allium seeds from your healthiest, best-performing plants is a great way to propagate new generations in your garden.

Post-Harvest Care for Alliums

Proper care after harvesting alliums helps ensure their return and performance next growing season:

• Leave foliage intact for 4-6 weeks after harvesting bulbs to allow nutrients to return to the bulb for next year’s growth.

• Water plants regularly through fall to promote root development. Reduce watering gradually as plants enter dormancy.

• Apply a layer of aged compost or manure around bulbs in fall to enrich soil for the following growing season.

• Mulch overwintering bulbs with straw or leaves after the ground freezes to provide insulation.

• Remove spent flowers on ornamental alliums to promote longer bloom periods but leave foliage until it naturally fades.

• In warmer regions, lift and store bulbs over winter for replanting to protect them from rotting. Replant in spring after the last frost.

With proper post-harvest care, your allium plants will return reliably for seasons to come.

Troubleshooting Common Harvesting Issues

While harvesting alliums is generally straightforward, a few issues can arise:

• Flopped foliage – Fallen, rotting foliage indicates overmature bulbs past their ideal harvest stage. Harvest promptly once tops start yellowing.

• Bruised bulbs – Avoid bruising and nicks by handling bulbs gently and using proper digging tools. Damaged bulbs won’t store well.

• Small bulbs – Harvest at full maturity for large, well-developed bulbs. Inadequate water or nutrients can also limit bulb sizes.

• Persistent moisture – Cure bulbs thoroughly in a dry spot before storage. Excess moisture encourages rotting and spoilage.

• Re-sprouting – Stored bulbs may begin re-sprouting due to inadequate drying or exposure to light and moisture. Keep storage conditions consistently dark, cool, and dry.

With careful harvesting and handling techniques, you can overcome these potential issues and gather an abundant allium crop.

Growing your own alliums not only provides a fresh, homegrown source of kitchen staples and beautiful floral displays – it also allows you to preserve varieties year after year. By understanding the best harvesting times and proper techniques for digging, gathering, and storing different alliums, you can stock your pantry and enrich your garden for seasons to come.