How to increase onion and garlic yield

Yield potentials are reached on freely drained soils where water is not limiting and nutrients are readily available. Temperature or drought stress can significantly harm growth if occurring at critical periods. Plant density and spacing are essential to determine onion and garlic bulb size and number. Yields are higher where early leaf cover is produced and then maintained for a long period prior to bulb formation.

Crop nutrition and onion and garlic yield

Onions and garlic have a relatively low nutrient uptake efficiency, due to their shallow root system characterized by thick roots with very few and short hairs. Therefore it is critical to implement a fertilizer program adapted to those conditions in order to help to achieve optimum yields. It is essential to time the applications of nutrients as close as possible to the rooting zone in frequently and readily available forms.

Major nutrient removal

Major nutrient removal figures show that nitrogen and potassium are the nutrients needed in relative greatest quantities in onion and garlic crops. They are fundamental for achieving high marketable yields. High rates of nitrogen are needed to satisfy crop demand. However it is important not to over-apply nitrogen, particularly in bulb onions, as this can delay maturity, soften bulbs and lead to storage rots.

In similar fashion to nitrogen, most Phosphorus is required early on in the plant’s development to ensure good root growth and to boost establishment. Potassium is particularly important where high N rates have been applied, to help maintain yield by increasing dry matter and sugar accumulation in the bulb.

Micronutrients

While much lower levels of micronutrients are needed to satisfy yield and quality onion crop production, the correct balance of these trace elements is essential. The key micronutrients needed in greatest quantities are boron, and iron. These have an influence on yield and quality. Zinc also pays a role in seed germination.