The Pskov onion is one of the most popular and versatile vegetables used in kitchens around the world. This variety deserves special attention due to its unique characteristics. It is known for its resilience to adverse conditions and excellent flavor. Proper care is essential when cultivating this crop.
Description of the plant and bulbs
The plant grows to a medium size, with bulbs weighing between 90 and 110 grams. The dry scales are yellow-brown, while the succulent layers are white. A single cluster can contain 3 to 4 bulbs.
Taste characteristics and purpose
The flavor is mild and delicate, with a slight spiciness. Shallots have a firm texture, ensuring a long shelf life. They are ideal for fresh consumption and have a high yield.
Ripening and yield
This variety is mid-season, with the period from germination to harvest lasting 70-90 days. Pskovsky yields an average of 2.5-3.5 kg per square meter.
Agrotechnical features
Choose a well-lit area for planting. Onions prefer sunny locations, as their growth slows in shade. Plant them in areas previously used for growing legumes, cabbage, cucumbers, or tomatoes. Avoid planting them after potatoes or other onion crops.
- ✓ Make sure that the area is not exposed to stagnant water, even for a short time, as this can lead to rotting of the bulbs.
- ✓ Check the soil acidity not only superficially, but also at the depth where the bulbs are planted, as it can vary.
Helpful tips:
- Prefers fertile, light, well-drained soil. The best option is loam or sandy loam with a neutral or slightly acidic reaction (pH 6-7).
- In the fall, add organic fertilizers (humus or compost) to the soil at a rate of 5-6 kg per 1 sq. m. Add wood ash and superphosphate (30-40 g per 1 sq. m).
- In the spring, before planting, loosen the area well and level it with a rake.
- × Avoid planting onions in soil that has previously been amended with fresh organic fertilizers, as this can lead to the development of fungal diseases.
- × Do not plant onions too deep, this will slow down their growth and may lead to rotting of the bulbs.
Step-by-step instructions:
- A few days before planting, warm the onion sets at 35-40°C for 8-10 hours. This will help reduce the risk of bolting.
- Plant the seedlings in furrows 4-5 cm deep. The distance between rows is 20-25 cm, between bulbs – 8-10 cm. The planting depth is 2-3 cm.
- Water the onions moderately, avoiding overwatering. They require more moisture during early growth, but reduce watering a month before harvesting to allow the bulbs to mature.
- Regularly loosen the soil between rows to improve aeration and remove weeds that may compete with the crop for nutrients and moisture.
- Two to three weeks after germination, apply the first nitrogen fertilizer (for example, urea at a rate of 15-20 g per square meter). As the bulbs form, apply phosphorus-potassium fertilizers (superphosphate and potassium salt).
- To protect against onion flies and other pests, use folk remedies (for example, watering with infusions of tobacco or onion peels) or chemical preparations according to the instructions.
- • To improve soil aeration and prevent crust formation after watering, mulch the space between rows with a thin layer of humus or compost.
- • During periods of active onion growth, especially during dry periods, increase the frequency of watering, but reduce the amount of water at a time to avoid over-watering.
Store vegetables in a cool, dry place. The optimal storage temperature is 0-3°C. You can learn more about planting and care instructions here. Here.
Reviews
The Pskovsky onion is a reliable, high-quality variety suitable for both beginner and experienced gardeners. Its high yield, pleasant flavor, and good shelf life make it an excellent choice for those seeking a consistent harvest. With timely agricultural management, you can grow high-quality, large-sized vegetables.