Onion Growing. 
7 
seed is planted, if the ground is dry, or as soon after as possible. 
Subsequent irrigation will depend on weather conditions, but close 
attention must be given to see that the ground is kept moist. On 
the other hand, too much water must not be applied, as it results 
in the formation of scallions and of spongy bulbs. 
Harvesting. Onion harvest is commonly begun by the 15th 
of September, and the crop is usually out of the field by the 
middle of October. Harvesting should begin promptly when the 
bulbs are mature, as is indicated by the withering of the tops and 
the yellowing of the necks. 
The onions are pulled by hand and thrown into windrows, 
where they are allowed to remain for several days to cure. After 
the curing process is complete the bulbs are topped, sorted and 
sacked. Topping is done by cutting off the tops about half an 
inch above the bulb, care being taken to make a smooth, clean 
cut, and not to injure the outer coverings. If more top is left on 
it detracts from the appearance, and if cut closer the bulb is liable 
to be injured. 
The onions are now sorted and sacked in the field, making 
but one grade. The small and unmarketable bulbs, together with 
the scallions, are left on the ground. Gunny sacks which hold 
about 100 pounds are the only packages used. 
Ordinarily damage by rain is not feared after the onions are 
sacked, but if they do become wet they should be left in the field 
until dry. The sacks should be turned as soon as the tops are 
dry in order that the bottom of the sacks may have an equal 
chance to dry out. This is especially true if the ground is wet. 
The growers do not usually attempt to hold their crop, but 
haul it directly to the car or to the dealer’s warehouse. All 
onions should be out of the field by the first of November. 
Markets. The principal market for Colorado onions is in 
Texas, though some are sent to Oklahoma and Indian Territory, 
and occasionally they are sent as far east as Kansas City and St. 
Louis. A portion of the crop is disposed of by the dealers soon 
after it is delivered by the growers, but perhaps two thirds of it 
is held until February. Onions that are held any length of time 
in storage must be resorted before they are placed on the market. 
Varieties. A great many varieties of onions have been tested 
by the growers in this district, but none have been found that 
meets all requirements as well as the Yellow Globe Danvers. It 
is practically the only variety grown. A few Red Danvers are 
grown, but the amount is scarcely worthy of mention. The 
Yellow Globe seems to be well adapted to our conditions of soil, 
altitude and climate; it yields well, keeps well, and its size and 
appearance meet the demands of the market. 
