Those that have been heat-treated should be planted between late March and April. Autumn sets can be planted between early September and early November. The sets should be planted in shallow drills. Nestle each into the base of the drill so that, when covered with soil, the neck is still protruding. Take care not to compress the soil in the base of the drill too much as this may affect rooting.
Birds are often inclined to try to uproot the sets, particularly if too much of the bulb is showing.
Once the sets have rooted, birds are no longer a problem. Covering the rows with net-covered mini polytunnels works well and these can be removed for use elsewhere once the sets have rooted. Recommended varieties Growing onions from seed Growing from sets Crop care Problems, pests and diseases Harvesting and storage Suppliers Search for plants by plant name or sun exposure and soil type. Send your problems to our experts or read their answers to other gardening questions. Read tips from fellow gardeners.