Heritage Onion Wethersfield Red

History

This onion derives its name from the town of Wethersfield CT where it was extensively cultivated in 1600 and 1700’s. Ships commonly carried onions between the CT river port and the West Indies in wooden barrels. The squat-flat shape of the Wethersfield Onion packed flat, allowing more onions per barrel. The First Church of christ built in Wethersfield in 1761 is called ‘The church that onions built’. Families were taxed for its construction; some paid in cash and some in onions.

Habit

The 3”-4” bulbs are flattened globes with deep burgundy skin and pale pink flesh. A long day onion, they are mild tasting and keep very well when allowed to dry before storing. Harvest when the green tops die down in late summer (approximately 100 days from transplant).

Culture

For the best crop, start seed indoors early; 8-10 weeks before the last frost date for your area. Sow seed 1” apart in trays and cover with ¼” fine soil. Keep soil moist until seedlings appear. Transplant into the garden 2 weeks before the last frost allowing 6-8” between plants.