Growing Onions In Plastic Cups: Indoor Gardening Guide

Among the diverse range of vegetables and herbs that can flourish within your home’s confines, onions are a treasured addition to any indoor garden.

Growing them indoors ensures a readily available supply and provides the satisfaction of cultivating a key ingredient from seed to table.

Using plastic cups as containers for cultivating onions may seem unconventional initially, but their benefits are remarkable.

From providing an ideal environment for root development to facilitating easy monitoring of soil conditions, plastic cups emerge as an efficient and cost-effective solution for indoor onion cultivation.

Let’s unravel the secrets of transforming humble plastic cups into vessels of flourishing onion abundance.

Selecting The Right Onion Variety

Different varieties have distinct flavors, sizes, and growth requirements. Consider bulb size, taste preferences, and whether you want green onions or mature bulbs. 

Some popular indoor onion varieties include Red Creole, Evergreen Bunching, and Yellow Sweet Spanish.


Gathering Necessary Materials & Tools

Gather the essential materials and tools to ensure a smooth and successful indoor onion gardening experience. 

  • Plastic cups: Choose sturdy, food-safe plastic cups to withstand moisture and growing conditions.
  • Potting soil: Invest in high-quality potting soil rich in organic matter and well-draining. Onions thrive in loose, well-aerated soil, so choose a mix that provides the ideal moisture retention and drainage balance.
  • Onion seeds or sets: Onion sets are small, pre-grown bulbs, while seeds offer more control over growth. Ensure the seeds or sets are fresh and of good quality to promote healthy germination.

Preparing The Plastic Cups

Opt for cups that are at least 4-6 inches in diameter and have a depth of 6 inches or more. This allows ample space for the onion bulbs to develop and the roots to spread.

The larger size also provides stability, preventing the cups from tipping over as the onions grow.

Creating Drainage Holes for Proper Water Circulation

Carefully create drainage holes at the bottom of each plastic cup using a sharp knife or a drill.

Ensure the holes are large enough to allow excess water to escape but not so large that the soil escapes. 

Filling Cups with the Right Potting Mix

Onions thrive in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Create a suitable potting mix by combining:

  • Peat Moss or Coconut Coir: Provides moisture retention.
  • Perlite or Vermiculite: Enhances aeration and drainage.
  • Quality Potting Soil: Rich in organic matter for essential nutrients.

Mix these components equally to create a well-balanced soil mix that promotes healthy onion growth.

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Adding Nutrients or Fertilizers If Necessary

Before planting, consider adding a slow-release fertilizer with balanced NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) to the potting mix.

Alternatively, you can opt for organic fertilizers such as compost, egg shells, or well-rotted manure.

Follow the recommended dosage on the fertilizer package, as over-fertilization can harm onion growth. 


Planting Onions

Seed Planting Method

Starting onions from seeds is rewarding and gives you complete control over your plants. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to start onions from seeds:

  1. Seed Starting Tray: Fill a seed starting tray with a well-draining potting mix suitable for onions.
  2. Sowing Seeds: Plant onion seeds about 1/4 inch deep in each tray cell. Ensure consistent moisture, and cover the tray with a plastic dome or plastic wrap to create a greenhouse effect for germination.
  3. Maintain Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Onion seeds typically germinate in 7-10 days under optimal conditions.
  4. Provide Light: Place the seed tray under the indoor lighting setup or in a well-lit area. For proper growth, onions require at least 12-16 hours of light daily.
  5. Transplanting: Once the seedlings reach a height of about 3 inches and have developed a robust root system, transplant them into the prepared plastic cups. Handle the seedlings carefully to avoid damaging the delicate roots.

Ideal Seed Depth and Spacing

When planting onion seeds directly in the plastic cups, follow these guidelines for optimal depth and spacing:

  • Seed Depth: Sow the seeds at a depth of approximately 1/4 inch. This ensures that they are adequately covered without being buried too deeply.
  • Spacing: Create furrows or small holes in the potting mix, maintaining a spacing of about 1 inch between seeds. Adequate spacing allows each onion to receive nutrients and grow without competition.

Using Onion Sets

Onion sets offer a convenient and efficient way to grow onions, especially for those looking for a quicker harvest.

Sets have a head start, allowing for an expedited maturation process. They are larger and easier to handle than tiny seeds, making them an excellent option for gardening beginners.

Using sets ensures a consistent variety, eliminating the variability of growing from seeds.

Proper Planting Depth and Spacing

When using onion sets, adhere to these guidelines for proper planting depth and spacing:

  • Planting Depth: Place each onion set in the plastic cup with the pointed end facing up. Bury them enough so the tip is leveled with the soil’s surface.
  • Spacing: Plant the sets approximately 2 inches apart within the plastic cup. This allows for sufficient room for bulb development without overcrowding.
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Indoor Growing Conditions

Maintaining optimal temperature and humidity is essential for the successful indoor growth of onions. 

Follow these guidelines to create a conducive environment:

  • Temperature: Onions thrive in temperatures between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations, as onions prefer a stable environment.
  • Humidity: Aim for a relative humidity level of around 50-70%. Indoor environments can sometimes be drier, especially in heated spaces, so consider using a humidity tray or a humidifier to maintain adequate moisture levels.

Choosing the Right Location for Your Indoor Onion Garden

Choose a location that receives ample natural light or is easily accessible to your artificial lighting setup. Avoid placing your onions in spots with prolonged darkness.

Ensure good air circulation to prevent humidity buildup and minimize the risk of fungal diseases. However, avoid drafty areas that may subject your onions to temperature fluctuations.

Provide enough space between your plastic cups to allow air circulation and prevent overcrowding.

Watering and Feeding

Water your onions when the top inch of the potting mix feels dry to the touch. Onions prefer consistent, moderate moisture rather than overly wet or dry conditions.

Use a watering can with a fine spout or a spray bottle to water your onions gently. This prevents soil compaction and minimizes the risk of disturbing the delicate roots.


Fertilizing Onions In Plastic Cups

Look for a fertilizer with a balanced Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) ratio. For example, a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 provides these essential nutrients equally.

Onions benefit from trace elements such as calcium, magnesium, and sulfur. Ensure that your chosen fertilizer includes these micronutrients.

Applying Fertilizer at Different Growth Stages

Tailor your fertilizer application to the various growth stages of your onions:

  • Seedling Stage: Once the onions have been transplanted into the plastic cups, wait about 2-3 weeks before applying a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer. Apply at half the recommended strength to avoid over-fertilization.
  • Vegetative Growth: As the onions enter the vegetative growth phase, apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Ensure that the soil is consistently moist before fertilizing.
  • Bulb Formation: Increase the frequency of fertilization to every 2-3 weeks during the bulb development stage. Switch to a fertilizer with a lower nitrogen content to encourage bulb formation.

Care & Maintenance

Pruning and Thinning Onion Seedlings

Trim the tops of your onion seedlings when they reach a height of about 3-4 inches. This encourages stronger, thicker stems and promotes overall plant vigor.

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If your seed tray or plastic cups become overcrowded with seedlings, thin them out to give each onion sufficient growth space. Gently remove the excess seedlings, leaving only the healthiest ones.

Common Onion Pests

Indoor onion gardens are not immune to pests, but early detection and prompt action can help mitigate potential damage. 

Common pests include:

  • Thrips: These tiny, slender insects can damage onion leaves by sucking out plant juices.
  • Onion Maggots: The larvae of these flies feed on onion roots, leading to wilting and stunted growth.
  • Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects cluster on plant leaves, consuming sap and excreting honeydew, which can attract other pests.

Natural and Organic Pest Control Methods

Neem oil is an effective and natural insecticide. Dilute it according to the package instructions and apply it to your onions to control pests like thrips and aphids.

Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or predatory mites to your indoor garden. They can help control pest populations without resorting to chemical treatments.

Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around your onions. This powdery substance is harmless to plants but effective against pests with exoskeletons.


Harvesting Happiness: The Joys Of Indoor Onion Gardening

Cultivating onions in plastic cups offers a rewarding indoor gardening experience. The vital steps include choosing the right variety to ensure optimal growing conditions.

Use the proper-sized cups and ensure your onions have the correct growing environment.

Beyond the practicality of fresh produce, this journey fosters a deeper connection to nature within the home. The growth from seed to plate imparts a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.

Lucy Young

Meet Lucy, a seasoned gardener with a green thumb and a wealth of experience cultivated over 10 years in her own backyard oasis. Now, she channels her passion into writing, sharing invaluable gardening knowledge on her website. From nurturing plants to expert pruning techniques, Lucy's articles are a treasure trove for both seasoned enthusiasts and budding gardeners. Join her on this leafy journey as she sprinkles insights, tips, and tricks to help you create your own flourishing paradise. Get ready to dig into her gardening wisdom and unlock the secrets of a thriving garden!

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