Climbing onion care guide

Pets and children

How often to water Climbing onion

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Every 14 days

Generally treated as a winter grower: water when the soil dries while the vine is growing, and cut back to about once or twice a month once it withers in early summer.

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Every 7 days

When a new vine emerges in fall the growing season has begun, so water thoroughly once the soil dries, as a guide.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Every 14 days

Still growing, but the soil dries slowly: as a guide, water a few days after it dries, on the morning of a mild day.

Light and placement for Climbing onion

Generally likes bright sun to part shade; as a guide, give the vine sun while keeping the bulb lightly shaded, since constant harsh sun damages it, and keep the air moving.

Overwintering Climbing onion

Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above

It is usually in growth over winter but not cold-hardy: move it to a bright window indoors below about 5°C, as a guide, give it daytime sun, and avoid frost and cold nights; the growth cycle can shift with the plant and its conditions.

Fertilizing and repotting Climbing onion

Fertilizer

While the vine is growing, diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month as a guide; none during dormancy, and a light hand is enough.

When to repot

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Common problems with Climbing onion

• Watered during dormancy, the bulb rots.
• Harsh sun or stagnant humid air damages the bulb surface.
• The withered vine is mistaken for a dead plant and thrown away.

Tips for growing Climbing onion

• Plant the bulb shallowly, with its upper half above the soil.
• Give the vine a stake or netting so the thin stems do not snap.
• Small offset bulbs that form beside the parent can be separated to make new plants.

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