Growing Guides

How to Grow Onion ‘Violet de Galmi’

A unique heirloom variety from West Africa with beautiful violet-pink skin, crisp white flesh, and rich, sweet flavor — excellent for fresh use and storage.

Sowing & Germination

• Start Indoors: Begin seeds 8–10 weeks before your last expected frost date
• Planting depth: Sow ¼ inch deep in trays or pots with moist seed-starting mix
• Germination time: 7–14 days at 65–75°F
• Transplanting: Harden off and transplant outdoors when seedlings are 4–6 inches tall and soil is workable
• Spacing: 4–6 inches apart in rows spaced 12–18 inches

Light & Growing

• Requires full sun (6–8+ hours daily)
• Best suited for long-day or intermediate-day regions
• Ensure loose, well-drained soil enriched with compost
• Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Watering & Soil

• Keep soil consistently moist during bulb development
• Water at the base to avoid fungal issues
• Stop watering once the tops begin to yellow and fall — signals maturity

Harvesting & Curing

• Harvest when tops fall over and necks begin to soften
• Loosen soil gently and lift bulbs by hand
• Cure in a dry, shady spot with good airflow for 2–3 weeks
• Trim tops and roots once outer skins are dry and papery
• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place

Growing Tips

• Feed with a balanced organic fertilizer every few weeks early in the season
• Onions are shallow-rooted — weed carefully and avoid disturbing the bulbs
• Start early — longer growing time results in larger bulbs
• Not ideal for very short-day regions

Why Grow ‘Violet de Galmi’ Onions?

• Stunning violet-pink color and crisp texture
• Excellent sweet flavor — perfect raw or cooked
• Long storage life when cured properly
• Unique heirloom with African heritage

 Grow something extraordinary with our heirloom ‘Violet de Galmi’ onions — beautiful, flavorful, and ideal for gardeners who value taste, color, and tradition.