Onions

History Onions have been grown the world over for 5,000 years. In fact, they may be one of the earliest cultivated crops. Onions grow in a variety of soils and climates. They also prevent thirst and are easily dried for later consumption, making them ideal foods in times of scarcity. The Chinese were growing onions in their gardens 5,000 years ago, while Egyptians were cultivating them as far back as 3500 B.C. Egyptians worshipped onions, believing that its spherical shape and concentric rings symbolized eternal life. Pharoahs were burried with onions in their tombs and painted on the walls of their pyramids. Source: Harris Ranch Onions Farmers Harris Fresh J.A. Harris and his wife, Kate, arrived in California’s Imperial Valley in 1916 to start one of California’s first cotton gins and cotton seed mills. They later moved to the San Joaquin Valley and began farming there. In 1937, their only son, Jack, and his wife Teresa, began what is now known as Harris Ranch... More… Season, Ripeness and Storage State Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Arizona                         California                         In-Season   Season Onions are grown year-round in California and from March through September. Ripeness Choose onions that are firm and dry with bright, smooth outer skins. Storage Store whole onions in a cool, dark, well ventilated place for use within 4 weeks. Refrigerate cut onions in a tightly sealed container for use within 2-3 days.