Ringmaster Onion is a long-day storage variety that takes its time developing into substantial bulbs over its 105-day growing season. This cultivar thrives in northern gardens where summer days stretch 14-16 hours, using those extended daylight periods to build impressive size before bulbing begins. With proper spacing at just 2 inches apart in rows 12 inches wide, Ringmaster maximizes garden real estate while producing onions that cure beautifully for long-term storage.
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High
3-10
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Moderate
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What sets Ringmaster apart is its photoperiodic precision, waiting for exactly the right day length before switching from leafy growth to bulb formation. This patient approach means more time for the plant to build energy reserves, resulting in larger, more substantial onions. The variety excels in northern climates where other onions might struggle, and its storage potential makes it a cornerstone crop for gardeners planning year-round onion supplies.
Ringmaster onions serve as versatile storage onions perfect for cooking throughout the year. Their substantial size and good keeping qualities make them ideal for everything from caramelized onions and soups to roasting whole alongside root vegetables. The variety can also be harvested early as scallions when pencil-thick, offering flexibility in the kitchen from spring through fall.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Sow up to 10-12 seeds in a 4-6 inch pot for indoor starting. If seedling tops grow over 5 inches before transplant time, trim them back to 3 inches to prevent stress and encourage strong root development.
When transplanting, carefully separate seedlings and place them in a shallow trench. Fill the trench around the young plants and water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets and establish good root contact with soil.
Direct seed outdoors and thin to the strongest plant when seedlings reach 4-5 inches tall. Days to maturity are calculated from the date of direct seeding.
Monitor the tops as bulbs mature, and when about half have naturally fallen over, push down the remainder. Wait approximately one week after pushing tops over, then harvest the bulbs. The timing is crucial for proper curing and storage quality.
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