How to Grow Scallions for Food and Fun

Green onions, also known in some places as chives or scallions, are a wonderful type of plant, used in many types of cooking. They are members of the onion family, and the leaves are used in soups, with potatoes, and even with cooked fish. The supposedly have some medicinal benefits, and have traditionally been used to ward off some types of bothersome insects by farmers.

They have been grown and harvested by people for centuries, dating back to the middle ages, and possibly to the Romans and before. It is considered a common household herb, and may be found in many grocery stores throughout the United States. However, one can simply and easily grow their own green onions inside the comfort of their own home, if they know how. Interested? Follow along!

Purchase at least one green onion, and use it for cooking. However, say the bottom part (white bulb with roots) by cutting it off. Make sure there is at least a little bit of green growth (at least half an inch) also included in the cut otherwise the plant will not sprout fresh green onion.

Take the bulb, and place it into a clean glass. I have used simple drinking glasses, and plant glasses with equal success. Try to use a tall glass that will help support the growth of the chives, otherwise, they may never grow straight. Fill the container with clean water, just enough so that the bulb is at least half submerged. As the bulb grows, and is able to support itself, fill more water so that the whole bulb is submerged.

Place the glass in the sunlight, such as in on a sunny windowsill or other suitable area. Within one to two days you should see fresh, green growth. Within a week the onion should have enough growth to cut off some, and use it in cooking. When trimming it, always remember to leave at least some green attached to the bulb, or it won't grow back. Also, ensure that the water is changed regularly and that it doesn't dry up-no water will result in a dead plant very quickly.