Ailsa Craig Onion Plants
Best choice for northern gardeners seeking massive, sweet, and storable onions.
These English heirlooms are the gold standard for northern gardeners who want massive, sweet onions that actually last through the winter. You sacrifice the quick gratification of store-bought bulbs for a longer growing season, but the payoff is a firm, two-pound harvest that puts supermarket produce to shame.
$22.95
Who it's for
- Busy growers wanting to skip the hassle of starting seeds
- Competitive gardeners aiming for massive, exhibition-quality harvests
- Home cooks seeking mild, versatile onions for fresh recipes
Who should skip it
- Southern gardeners living in short-day growing regions
- Homesteaders needing onions that last through the entire winter
- Beginners struggling with inconsistent garden temperatures or transplant stress
Performance breakdown
Yield Potential
Capable of producing massive two-pound bulbs with consistent care.
Flavor Profile
Exceptional sweetness makes these a standout choice for fresh culinary use.
Storage Longevity
Outperforms most sweet varieties in shelf life after the harvest.
Climate Adaptability
Specifically optimized for northern regions with long-day growing cycles.
Planting Readiness
Hardened-off starts minimize transplant shock for immediate garden integration.
Growth Consistency
Requires specific soil conditions to reach full size and firm texture.
Key Specs
Days to Maturity
105 days
Bulb Size
6–8 inches
Weight
up to 2 pounds
Seed Depth
⅛–½"
Soil pH Preference
6.0-7.0
Mature Height
0.5 feet
Mature Spread
8 feet
Sun Exposure
Full Sun
USDA Hardiness Zones
3-10
Plant Life Cycle
Perennial
Know before you buy
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Ask Metto anything about the Ailsa Craig Onion Plants before you decide.
