Organic 'Bianca Di Maggio' Onion
Organic 'Bianca di Maggio' onion (Allium cepa) from the seed company Gaia, a sweet, crisp and versatile Italian white onion
The 'Bianca di Maggio' onion is an Italian heritage variety renowned for its sweet, crisp , white bulbs , ideal for eating fresh , pickling, or adding a delicate flavor to Mediterranean dishes. Thriving in fertile, well-drained soil, it requires a long growing season but rewards with excellent yields and storage capacity , far exceeding that of many sweet onions. Its subtle, non-spicy flavor makes it a versatile and refined choice in the kitchen.
Companion plants : Brassicaceae, Carrot, Tomato, Lettuce, Beetroot, Parsnip, Chamomile, Rose, Strawberry
Nefarious plants : Beans, Peas, Asparagus
Spread/Habit : Rounded to slightly flattened bulbs
Plant height : 45 to 60 cm
Quantity per packet : 100 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Sweet white onion, very crisp, excellent fresh or pickled, good storage potential, heritage Italian variety
Leaf color : Bluish-green
Texture/flavor : Mild, crunchy, not spicy
Cold tolerance : Down to -12°C
Farming method
Start sowing 10 to 12 weeks before transplanting. Sow at a depth of 3–6 mm . When the seedlings reach 12.5 cm , prune them back to 2.5 cm to encourage a thicker stem. Transplant to full sun (level 3) and water thoroughly (level 3). Space plants 15 cm apart and rows 45–75 cm apart. Germination takes 6–12 days at temperatures between 10–25°C (optimum 20–25°C).
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the leaves have dried and fallen . Allow the bulbs to mature in the field for 3 to 5 days or dry them in a greenhouse at 23–26°C and 80% humidity. To prolong dormancy, cool and dry slowly. Ideal storage: 0–1°C , 65–70% humidity, in a root cellar.
Usage ideas
• In raw salads , thanks to their incomparable sweetness
• In crisp, translucent white pickles
• In classic Italian dishes: bruschetta, antipasti, focaccia
• Lightly cooked to bring out their sweetness
• Thinly sliced in sandwiches or tacos
The ' Bianca di Maggio' onion combines sweetness, freshness, and culinary versatility. A refined heirloom variety, perfect for gourmet gardens and Italian-inspired cuisine.
