Seed Savers Exchange Ailsa Craig Onion
Best heirloom choice for gardeners wanting massive mild onions.
A classic, large-bulbed variety known for its mild flavor and impressive size. Perfect for fresh culinary applications, this heirloom choice brings a touch of history and reliable performance to the home garden.
$4.25
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Who it's for
- Exhibition gardeners aiming to grow prize-winning, oversized produce.
- Home cooks who prefer a gentle, non-pungent onion for fresh dishes.
- Sustainable gardeners committed to preserving traditional plant varieties.
Who should skip it
- Bulk growers needing onions that stay fresh through the winter.
- Northern gardeners with short summers and limited growing windows.
- Southern growers living in regions with shorter summer days.
Performance breakdown
Culinary Versatility
Mild flavor profile excels in everything from salads to slow-cooked soups.
Harvest Potential
Capable of producing impressive, large bulbs with proper garden care.
Storage Longevity
Best enjoyed fresh as this variety lacks long-term keeping qualities.
Growing Difficulty
Requires consistent attention and specific long-day conditions to thrive.
Germination Reliability
Standard 4-10 day window makes for predictable and efficient sowing.
Heirloom Pedigree
A classic 1887 variety offering authentic flavor and historical garden value.
Key Specs
Botanical Name
Allium cepa
Days to Maturity
100 days
Planting Depth
0.64 cm
Plant Spacing
10.16 cm
Light Requirements
Full Sun
Germination Time
4-10 days
Edible
Yes
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