Spring Onion White Lisbon (heirloom seeds)

Spring Onion White Lisbon is an old variety dating back to the 17th century. It is known for its crisp white stems and mildly spicy onion flavor. White Lisbon matures quickly and is usually ready to harvest after only 6 to 8 weeks. This versatile variety can be grown both in the garden and in containers, making it ideal for small spaces or urban gardens. White Lisbon is easy to grow from seed and requires minimal maintenance, which makes it a favorite among both beginner and experienced gardeners.

Sowing Spring Onions

You can sow directly outdoors from late March in a sunny spot with nutrient-rich soil. Sow the seeds about half a centimeter deep, leaving 10 cm between rows and 2.5 cm between plants. Sow again in June for a continuous harvest until September. Harvesting is often still possible in November — the stems may be a bit tougher, but they remain suitable for warm dishes or soups. Spring onions can withstand temperatures down to approximately −6 °C.

You can also start them early indoors or under glass from mid-February and transplant the young shoots outdoors by the end of March. When sown close together, they will form bunches of spring onions; when spaced farther apart, they can be harvested later in the season, with small white bulbs forming at the base of the stems.

Tip: sow calendula (marigold) nearby to help deter unwanted insects.

Heirloom Variety

An heirloom variety is a plant that has been open-pollinated and passed down from generation to generation for at least 50 years. These are typically traditional cultivars selected for their unique flavors, colors, or other distinctive traits. Heirlooms are valued not only for their historical and cultural significance but also for their taste and genetic diversity.