Growing Onions, Leeks and Garlic

Soil pH and Fertility
Maintain soil pH between 6.2 and 6.8 for all the above crops. Add fertilizer and lime based on soil test results. (Kits can be purchased from Penn State Cooperative Extension county offices.)

Before applying chemical fertilizer, incorporate a 1- to 2-inch layer of compost into the soil. For onions and leeks, in the absence of a soil test, apply to each 100 square feet either 41/2 pounds of 5-10-10 fertilizer (where potash is thought to be low) or 41/2 pounds of 5-10-5 (or equivalent) (where potash
levels are expected to be fairly high; for example, areas where wood ashes, manures, or high rates of complete fertilizers have been applied previously). Use 31/2 pounds per 100 square feet of the above fertilizers for garlic. Broadcast all fertilizers and work into the soil before planting.

For more information, please see this Penn State Fact Sheet.

Penn State Horticulture Department

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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