Saving Seeds from a Flowering Onion: Viability and Timing

Seed Production Process

Flowering onion (bolted) will produce seeds in the umbel. Steps:

1. Let seeds mature on plant (umbel dries, turns brown).
2. Cut head, bag upside down, dry 2 weeks.
3. Shake seeds out; store cool/dry in paper envelope.
4. Viability: 1–2 years (onion seeds short-lived).

Caveats

• Store-bought onions often hybrids → seeds variable.
• Biennial: this plant won't bulb again.
• Cross-pollination with other alliums possible.

Better Approach

Buy fresh seed annually. Use this plant for greens/flowers only.